The Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preheat oven to 350° F (use convection if possible). In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar and brown sugar. Add in room-temperature butter and mix with fork or mixer until completely combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, thoroughly. Mix in vanilla and salt. Gradually add flour (I do by the 1/2 c or by the cup) and stir until just combined. (Note: dough will get stiff and difficult to mix. Mixers or beaters are helpful.) In small bowl or cup, combine baking soda with 2 teaspoons very hot water (microwaved or hottest tap water). Mix in diluted baking soda just until combined and uniformly smooth (you will now find the dough easier to mix). Fold in chocolate chips, and walnuts if desired. Scoop dough in heaping tablespoons (or if you're like me, much larger) onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake until the tops of the cookies begin to "wrinkle" or crack and have a light golden color--usually 8 to 10 minutes. Let sit on sheet for at least three minutes before moving to wire rack.