Date Nut Cake

1 cup hot water
1 cup chopped dates
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 cup + 7 teaspoons flour
1 tablespoon cocoa
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Pour hot water over dates and soda.
Let cool.

Cream shortening and sugar. Add
eggs, one at a time. Add date mix-
ture, then dry ingredients. Pour into
a greased 9x13x2 pan. Sprinkle on nuts
and chocolate chips. Bake at 350 degrees
for 35 minutes.