1 lb. pitted dates
4 tsp. baking soda
2 eggs
2 c. sugar
4 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 c. raisins
2 tsp. vanilla
2 c. chopped walnuts

Place pitted dates in mixing bowl, pour 3 cups of boiling water over dates; stir in baking soda. Set aside and let stand for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Beat eggs and sugar together. Sift flour, salt and baking powder together; add to egg mixture. Add date mixture and nuts, raisins and vanilla. Mix very well. Pour into 3 greased and floured loaf pans (8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2). Bake for 60 to 90 minutes. Test after one hour with cake tester.