Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies

Bring raisins and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered until raisins are plump, about 15 minutes. Drain and reserve liquid. If needed, add enough water to raisin water to equal 1/2 cup liquid.

Combine raisins, 1/2 cup raisin water (or 1/2 cup buttermilk), sugar, shortening, vanilla, eggs, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, baking powder, cloves, oatmeal and chopped nuts.

Drop by spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet. If desired, place pecan half on top of each cookie.