Sift flour, baking soda, salt, and white sugar together in a large bowl. Cut in shortening until it resembles coarse meal.
With a funnel, pour about half of flour mixture into a quart jar. Tap jar to settle. Layer brown sugar over this, then 1 cup of chocolate chips. Layer the rest of the flour, chocolate chips, and nuts on top. Place lid on jar, cover with pretty material, and screw on band. Attach a paper with the following mixing instructions:
Pour contents of jar into a large bowl. Add 2 beaten eggs and 11/2 teaspoons vanilla. Mix well. Drop by teaspoons onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375° for 8 to 10 minutes or until done. Cool on a wire rack. Yield: 6 dozen cookies.
Note: You may substitute white chocolate chips or M&Ms for chocolate chips.