2 c. sugar
2 c. flour
1/2 c. shortening
1 stick butter
1 c. water
4 tbsp. cocoa
1/2 c. buttermilk
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla

Sift together the sugar and flour and set aside in a large bowl. In a saucepan, bring to a boil the shortening, butter, water, and cocoa. Pour over the flour mixture while still hot. Add the buttermilk, beaten eggs, soda and vanilla. Bake in a long (13x15 inch) cookie sheet with sides or a 9x13 inch pan. Grease cake pan lightly. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until done. Frost while until hot with frosting below.

FROSTING:

1 stick butter
4 tbsp. cocoa
6 tbsp. milk
1 box powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Bring butter, cocoa and milk to a boil; add sugar, vanilla and chopped nuts. Sift powdered sugar, if lumpy. Spread on cake and enjoy.