Easy bracelet display tutorial

I've been meaning to figure out how to make one of these for a while so I've been saving cardboard tubes that are approximately wrist size to do it. But I hadn't figured out how to cap the ends to make them look finished and professional. Then it occurred to me that mailing tubes already are the right size and already have end caps.  This couldn't be easier. I used a scrap of fabric that resembles white Dupioni silk to match my other displays.

Supplies:

* Mailing tube that is wrist size (this one was 7 inches in circumference)
* Thin fabric of your choice (too thick and the end caps won't go on later)
* Matching thread

Instructions:

Cut a piece of fabric to cover the mailing tube.  Measure carefully so that the fabric is just 5/8 inch wider than the circumference of your mailing tube and at least two inches longer.  With right sides together sew the fabric into a long tube with a 1/4 inch seam. I used pinking sheers after sewing to trim the seam and keep the fabric from fraying.  Press seam open using just the tip of the iron.  Turn fabric tube right side out and slip over the mailing tube. It should fit very tightly if you measured correctly. Tuck the raw ends into the tube and slide the end caps on. 

Sue

Super Easy Ice Cream Cake

My son, Caleb has a summer birthday in July.  Ice cream cake is a nice option for his cake. This year we were in the middle of moving during his birthday so an easy cake was all we could manage.  This cake is SUPER EASY and quite tasty as it is made with ice cream sandwiches which most people really like.

Build the base with rows of ice cream sandwiches

Spread cool whip over the top (chocolate cool whip gives a nicer look, but I couldn't find any)

three layers makes a nice size cake

Freeze until cool whip is frozen and decorate

Enjoy!

Tacy's Soup

It's good to have a few of those tried and true recipes that can be whipped up for a family meal in no time. This Southwestern style, hearty soup was invented by our friend, Tacy. Everything in it is a pantry staple in our home so I can make it any time. It has a creamy/cheesy tasting base that actually has NO cheese in it (shhhh, don't tell your family--they'll never guess).

2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup

3 cups chicken broth

28 oz can of diced tomatoes

1 onion, chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound chicken, cooked and shredded or chunked (canned or leftover works well)

7 oz can chopped green chiles (or two smaller cans)

1/4 teaspoon garlic salt

1/2 teaspoon oregano

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

chili powder to taste

salt to taste (you won't need any unless you used low sodium products)

black pepper to taste

Saute onion in olive oil. Add condensed soup (do not thin with water), stir. Slowly whisk in chicken broth. Add tomatoes, chicken, green chile and spices. Heat through.

Serves 8. This makes a large pot of soup and is great for leftovers. Serve with tortilla chips for a little crunch.

This is also something that I make when camping as nothing in it needs to be refrigerated if you use canned chicken.