FILLING:

2 (8 oz.) pitted dates, cut up
1 c. water
1/2 c. sugar
1/4 c. lemon juice
1/2 c. walnuts, chopped

CRUST:

1 1/2 c. sifted all purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 c. butter
1 c. light brown sugar
1 1/2 c. raw quick oats

In small saucepan combine dates, sugar and 1 cup water. Cool over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add lemon juice and nuts. Cool. Sift flour with soda and salt, set aside. In medium bowl, heat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour mixture and oats. Mix with hands until well blended. Press half oatmeal mixture into a 9 x 13 inch greased pan. spread with filling. Cover with remaining oatmeal mixture. Press lightly with hand. Bake 25 to 30 minutes at 375 degrees or until golden brown. Cut bars when still warm.