Combine 1 3/4 cups boiling water and 1 cup oatmeal. Let stand 10 minutes. Add to oatmeal mixture 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup white sugar, 1 cup butter, and 2 eggs. Sift 1 3/4 cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 1/2 tablespoon cocoa.

Add dry ingredients to batter and 1/2 (12 oz.) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips. Add the other 1/2 (12 oz.) bag on top of cake. Nuts are optional. Bake 40-50 minutes at 350 degrees in a 9x13 inch pan.