Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; sift. Cream shortening and vanilla in a large bowl. Add sugars a little at a time. Add eggs. Stir well. Add flour a little at a time. Add oatmeal. Then add chips and nuts (optional). Drop by spoonful on UNGREASED cookie sheet. Bake at 375� for 10 dozen min. Makes 4 dozen cookies.