1 c. dates, chopped
1 c. plus 3 tbsp. hot water
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. white sugar
1 c. shortening
2 eggs
2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. chocolate chips
1/2 c. nuts

Pour hot water over dates. Then remove enough water to dissolve soda. Return soda mixture to dates and water. Cream sugar and shortening. Then add beaten eggs, flour, salt, cocoa and vanilla. Beat well. Then add 1/2 cup chocolate chips along with date and water mixture.