Matrimonial Squares

Base:
2 cups oatmeal
2 cups flour
1 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter

Date Filling:
1/2 pound dates, pitted
2/3 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Base:
In a large bowl, combine oatmeal, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly.

Spread 3/4 of the crumbs in a 9 x 13 inch cake pan.

Date Filling:
Mix dates, water and sugar together in a saucepan. Cook until thick, stirring frequently.

Remove from heat and add lemon juice.

Allow to cool before using.

Spread over the crumbs in the pan. Sprinkle the remaining crumbs over top of the filling.

Bake at 350 degrees F. for 20 minutes.