Basic Cookie

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup soft butter
1/3 cup shortening
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon vanilla

1. In a large bowl beat the shortening and butter with a mixer
   for about 30 seconds. Then add the sugar, baking powder, and
   salt, and beat some more. Then beat in the egg, milk, and
   vanilla. Then beat in the flour. Divide the dough in half.
   Cover and chill the dough for 3 hours.

2. Then lightly flour a cutting board or other surface, and roll
   the dough out to about 1/8 inch thick. Then take your favorite
   cookie cutters, and cut out some cookies. Place them about
   an inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet for baking.

3. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees, then bake the cookies for 
   7 to 8 minutes. Remove the cookies and cool on a rack.

4. Makes between 3 and 4 dozen cookies. Cookies can be decorated
   with icings if desired.