1 1/8 c. finely cut dates
1 1/4 c. boiling water
3/4 tsp. baking soda
3/4 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 tbsp. cocoa
2 eggs
1 1/4 c. plus 3 tbsp. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. chopped nuts
1/2 c. chocolate chips
1/2 c. sugar

Add boiling water to dates. Sprinkle with soda. Set aside to cool. Cream shortening, sugar, and cocoa. Add eggs. Beat thoroughly, combine with date mixture. Add flour, soda, salt, and vanilla. Beat well. Pour into 9x13 inch pan. Sprinkle with nuts, chocolate chips, and sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes.