Chocolate Chip Almond Oatmeal Cookies

1 c. Crisco shortening

1 c. granulated sugar

1 c. firmly packed dark brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

½ tsp. almond extract (optional)

2 c. flour

1 tsp. baking soda

½ tsp. salt

2 c. rolled oats

1 ½ c. semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 c. slivered almonds (optional)

Heat oven to 350.  Combine shortening and sugars in large bowl.  Beat at medium until well blended.  Beat in eggs, vanilla, and almond extract until well-blended.  Combine flour, baking soda and salt in medium bowl.  Add to creamed mixture; mix well.  Add oats; mix well.  Add chocolate chips and almonds.  Spray baking sheets with non-stick cooking spray.  Drop dough by tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto prepared baking sheets.  Bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.  Cool on baking sheets 4 minutes; transfer to cooling racks.