1 pkg dates cut in small pieces - (can be found diced in pkg)
1 cup hot water
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup shortening (1/2 butter & 1/2 butter)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups of flour
2 tbsp. cocoa
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. salt
1 large pkg (12 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate morsels
1 small bag of chopped pecans

Pour hot water over dates, add baking soda and let cool. Cream shortening and add sugar. Beat eggs, add to shortening and cream well. Sift flour, cocoa and salt together. Add dry ingredients to cream mixture & add vanilla. Lightly fold in date mix and put in greased 13x9 pan. Then sprinkle the top with the package of chocolate chips and nuts.

Bake in a 350°F oven for 40 to 45 minutes.

"This is named after my mother."