Heat oven to 375 degrees. In large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla with electric mixer until creamy. Add eggs; beat well. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to butter mixture, beating until well blended. Stir in chocolate chips and nuts, if desired. Drop by teaspoons onto ungreased cookie sheet. bake 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. cool slightly; remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely.