BROWNIES:

1 1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. flour
2 eggs
5 tbsp. milk
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. nuts (optional)
2/3 c. hot tap water

FROSTING:

1 c. sugar
1/4 c. cocoa
1/4 c. butter
1/4 c. water
1 tsp. vanilla

Mix all brownies ingredients together. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

FROSTING: Combine sugar, cocoa, butter and water. Bring to boil. Boil about 30 seconds. Remove from heat. Cool. Add vanilla. Beat until it is of spreading consistency.