Super Duper Oaty Choco-Yums

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly "massage" 2 heavy large baking sheets with butter.

For the dough: Beat butter and brown sugar (you may try Sucanat instead) in large mixing bowl until fluffy and well blended. Beat eggs into the mixture 1 at a time. Then add the vanilla extract. Sift flour, baking soda and salt over the buttery mixture and stir to blend. Mix in oats, the chocolate chips (your favorite fair trade variety) and pecans. Add raisins if desired.

Drop tablespoonfuls of cookie dough onto prepared sheets. Bake for 12 minutes if you like 'em chewy, and a tad longer if you like crispy cookies. Once baked to perfection, transfer to racks and cool completely.

Please note: cookies can be prepared a few days ahead of time, if stored in an air-tight container.