Cowboy Up (in a strictly baking way)

Usually if I discover a fantastic new recipe, I'll post it here, however, I feel strongly that this cookie recipe deserves its very own special post on The Mannifesto. Are you curious yet? Let me tell you this: I've had this recipe for over 7 years now (part of a fabulous wedding present from Sis. Clark in Oakwood Ward); I've never tried it before because I have always stuck like glue to my never-fail choc. chip cookie recipe; after eating these, I will probably never go back to that recipe (sniff, sniff, farewell old friend). By posting this recipe, I fear someone out there will make them and say, "All that hype for this?" Just know that within 2 1/2 days of making 3 dozen of these bad boys (and not sharing them outside the three of us)- they were completely devoured. So without further ado...

COWBOY COOKIES:

Mix together:
*1 cup shortening
*1 cup sugar
*1 cup brown sugar
*2 eggs
*1 tsp. vanilla

In sep. bowl, combine:
*1 1/2 cups oatmeal (doesn't matter- quick or old-fashioned)
*2 cups flour
*1 tsp. baking soda
*1/2 tsp. salt
*1/2 tsp. baking powder

Gradually stir in dry ingredients to wet ingredients. This will be a thick dough. Add about 2 cups semi-sweet chips and 1 cup chopped walnuts (if you're not a fan of nuts, the recipe says you can sub 3/4 cup coconut, but I haven't tried it). With clean hands, mix everything together (I wasn't strong enough to use a spoon).

Scoop into balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Makes about 3 dozen.

Happy munching!