Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Cream together the butter (1C), white sugar (1C), and brown sugar (1C) until smooth. Beat in the eggs (2) one at a time, then stir in the vanilla (2t). Dissolve baking soda (1t) in hot water (2t). Add to batter along with salt (1/2t). Stir in flour (3C) and chocolate chips (2C). Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased pans.

Bake for about 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until edges are nicely browned.