Chewy Raisin Cookies

2 cups raisins
1 cup water
1 tsp. baking soda
1 cup shortening
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
4 cups flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup nuts

Boil raisins and water together for 5 min. Cool and add the baking soda. Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs. Sift dry ingredients together and add to other mixture. Add raisins and nuts. Bake at 350 for 12-15 minutes.