For the Cake:
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup butter
1 cup water
2 cups granulated white sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (or up to 1 teaspoon for a stronger flavor)
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 eggs
For the Buttercream Frosting:
1 lb. box of confectioner's sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened to room temp
3-4 tablespoons milk
1 tsp. vanilla