Chocolate Chip Cookies (Kay Hillje)

I came up with this recipe after several years of trial and error. Hope you enjoy them. - Kay Hillje

½ c. butter/margarine

½ c. shortening

1 c. sugar

1 c. brown sugar

2 t. vanilla

2 eggs, beaten

2 ¼ c. flour, sifted

1 t. soda, dissolve in 2 t. hot water

½ t. salt

2 c. chocolate chips

1 c. pecans, chopped (optional)

In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, shortening, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Add eggs and mix well. Add soda mixture, flour, and salt. Mix well. Stir in the chocolate chips and the nuts. Drop by spoonfuls onto baking sheets. Bake 375º for 10 minutes or until light brown.