Picnic Cake

1 ¼ C raisons or dates

1 ½ C boiling water

1 t baking soda

∙ Combine in small bowl and allow to cool.

∙ Cream:

¾ C shortening

1 C sugar

Add 2 eggs and beat till fluffy.

Sift together:

2 ⅔ C flour

1 t cinnamon

½ t salt

2 t vanilla

∙ Combine all ingredients and pour into a greased and floured 9x13 pan.

∙ Sprinkle on top:

½ C brown sugar

½ C nuts

¾ C chocolate chips.

∙ Bake at 350' for 40 minutes.