Preheat oven to 350°F.

Cream shortening and sugar; add well-beaten eggs.

Dissolve soda in the hot water and add to the egg mixture.

Add one cup flour, then add the mashed bananas.

Add the second cup of flour.

You may add about 1/3 cup of walnuts if desired.

Bake in a greased loaf pan until toothpick comes out clean for about 45 minutes if baked in 2 small loaves.