Oatmeal Bars 2

• 1 cup oatmeal
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1¼ cups hot water 
• ½ cup shortening
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• 2 eggs
• 1 ½ cup flour

topping:

1. 6 tbsp. butter
2. ½ cup brown sugar
3. 1 cup coconut
4. ¼ cup cream
5. 1 tsp. vanilla.

1. Soak oatmeal and salt in hot water for 20 minutes. (I only soak until the creamed mixture is ready. I think the timing may come from older meal processes where the oats were much thicker. I have used both quick-cooking and regular oats, and it all comes out the same.) 
2. Cream shortening with white sugar, 1 cup brown sugar, baking soda, and eggs. 
3. Add flour and oatmeal mixture. 
4. Bake in 9 x 13 inch pan at 350 degrees for approximately 30 minutes.

While still warm, top with:
Melted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, coconut, cream, and vanilla.