1/2 lb. dates, pitted & cut up
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. boiling water
1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 3/4 c. flour
1 tsp. cocoa
1 tsp. salt
1/2 c. chocolate chips
1/2 c. nuts

Pour boiling water over dates and soda, let sit. Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla and beat. Sift together dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture with dates and beat 2 minutes. Place in greased 9 inch square pan and top with chocolate chips and nuts. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 to 55 minutes.