Honey Date Bars

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup honey
2 eggs, beaten
3/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. cloves
1 cup dates, chopped
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 cup nuts, chopped

Cream shortening and honey. Add eggs and beat. Add dry ingredients that have been sifted together. Add dates and nuts. Pour into 8x12 inch pan.
Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until bars spring back when lightly touched. Cool, cut into bars. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top if desired while still fairly warm.