1 c. walnuts
1 1/2 c. chopped dates
2 1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 c. plus 1/2 tbsp. shortening
1 1/4 c. boiling water

Mix first 4 ingredients with fork. Add shortening and water and let stand 20 minutes. In a separate bowl beat 3 eggs with fork. Add 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, 1 1/2 cups sugar and 2 1/4 cups flour (or 2 cups flour and 1/4 cup wheat germ). Beat with fork. Add date mixture to egg/flour mixture, mixing to blend. Pour into 2 loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-50 minutes.