1 c. dates, cut up
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. boiling water
1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. cocoa
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla

Combine dates, soda and boiling water and cover. Mix together remaining ingredients and add 1 1/2 cups flour and date mixture. Put in greased and floured 13"x9"x2" pan.

TOPPING:

1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. nuts
1/2 c. chocolate chips