1 tsp. baking soda
2 c. flour
2 c. sugar
2 sticks butter
4 tbsp. cocoa
1 c. water
2 eggs
1/2 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. cinnamon (optional)

Mix together soda, flour and sugar and set aside. Combine butter, cocoa and water in a heavy saucepan and let come to a boil. Pour liquid mixture over sugar mixture then add eggs, buttermilk, vanilla and cinnamon. Pour into 13"x9"x2" pan and bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes.

ICING:

1/2 c. butter
1/4 c. + 2 tbsp. evaporated milk
1/4 c. cocoa
1 (16 oz.) pkg. confectioners' sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1/3 c. pecans or walnuts (optional)

Combine butter, milk and cocoa in heavy saucepan, bring to boil, stirring constantly. Stir in sugar, vanilla and nuts. Stir well. Pour over cake while still warm.