1 c. dates (pitted & cut)
1 c. hot water
1 tsp. baking soda

Dissolve soda in hot water. Place pitted and cut dates in the hot water and let stand while mixing.

CAKE BATTER:

1/2 c. butter
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 c. flour
2 tbsp. cocoa
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. walnuts
1 pkg. chocolate chips

Cream butter and sugar. Add whole eggs and beat thoroughly. Combine dry ingredients and add gradually to creamed mixture, beating well. Mix in date and water mixture, vanilla and walnuts. Sprinkle chocolate chips over top. Bake at 350 degrees in 13 x 9 inch pan for 30 minutes.