Beat the butter and sugars until frothy in a large bowl. Eggs and vanilla should be thoroughly mixed in.
Combine flour, baking soda, and salt in a larger bowl; stir into butter mixture. Add nuts and milk chocolate chips, if using. Drop spoonfuls of mixture onto an oiled baking sheet.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until golden. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack and allow to cool slightly. Complete cooling.