First:

1 1/2 c. boiling water
1 1/2 c. dates (chopped)
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda

Mix together and cool.

Second:

3 eggs
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 c. flour
3/4 tsp. salt
3 tbsp. cocoa
3/4 c. chopped pecans
3/4 c. chocolate chips
2 tbsp. sugar

Bake at 350°FF.