2 sticks butter, softened
2 c. sugar
3 eggs
1 c. buttermilk
3 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
4 tbsp. cocoa
1/2 c. warm water
1 tsp. vanilla

Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each one. Add vanilla. Sift flour and add alternately with buttermilk. Mix together warm water, cocoa and baking soda. Add to mixture. Pour mixture into 3 (8 inch) round cake pans and bake in preheated 350 degree oven until it springs back. Test with toothpick. Cool on wire racks.

ICING:

2 c. sugar
1 3/4 stick butter
1 c. evaporated milk
1 tsp. vanilla

Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer about 1 hour or until thick. Remove from heat, add vanilla and beat until thick enough to spread. Frost.