1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. butter
2 c. sugar
5 eggs, separated
2 c. cake flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. buttermilk
1 2/3 c. coconut

Cream shortening, butter, and sugar. Beat until fluffy. Add egg yolks, one at a time. Beat well. Sift flour and add baking soda. Add alternately with buttermilk, ending with flour. Add coconut. Beat egg whites until stiff. Fold into batter. Pour into 3 (9 inch) cake pans that have been greased and floured. Bake in 350 degree oven for about 30 minutes.

ICING:

1/2 c. shortening
1 (8 oz.) pkg. softened cream cheese
1 lb. powdered sugar
1/8 tsp. salt
1/2 c. nuts
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. coconut

Cream butter and cream cheese. Add sugar, vanilla, and salt. Coconut can be added and mixed in or sprinkled on top of cake.