1 c. shortening (butter flavored)
2 c. brown sugar, packed
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt

Mix shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla thoroughly. Add flour and blend. Add soda and salt, blend.

Divide into 2 parts. Roll each piece of dough on wax paper into rectangles approximately 11 x 7 inches. Spread each with 1/2 date/nut filling. Roll tightly beginning at wide end. Pinch edge to seal. Wrap rolls in waxed paper and chill several hours. Heat oven to 400 degrees.

Cut loaves into 1/4 inch slices. Place on lightly greased baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes.

FILLING:

1 1/2 lb. moist pitted dates, chopped
2/3 c. sugar
2/3 c. water
1/2 to 3/4 c. chopped pecans

Place dates, sugar and water in saucepan. Cook until slightly thick, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, cool. Add pecans.