I: FROSTING:

3 egg whites
1 tsp. cream of tartar
1 lb. powdered sugar

To make Frosting: Combine egg whites and cream of tartar in a mixing bowl. Beat until a stiff peak forms. Add powdered sugar until mixture is thick and holds its shape. Cover icing with a damp cloth until ready to use.

II: OTHER ITEMS:

Empty school milk cartons (or 1/2 pt. carton)
Graham crackers

To construct houses: Prepare graham crackers to fit the 4 sides of the carton and a roof. Use approximately 1/2 cracker for each. You may need to shape them a little....use a serrated knife and saw back and forth to get a clean break. Cut triangles to fit the front and the back of the roof also.

Construct the houses by "cementing" graham crackers to the sides of the carton with icing. Allow the sides to dry a little before adding the roof triangles and tops. Once the roof and sides are in place and dried a little, the decorating can begin.

III: DECORATIONS:

Styrofoam dish or plate
Gumdrops
Life Savers
Chocolate chips
Hershey miniatures
Cake decorating sprinkles
Licorice strings
Teddy Grahams
Shredded Wheat or Life cereal
Or any other creative sweets you might have around

To Decorate: Use the icing to "cement" all the decorations. Place house in a styrofoam plate or shallow pan, allowing for space to create a yard scene. Use an inverted sugar cone to make a pine tree. Make a path with candies and add a few Teddy Grahams out in the yard. Green spearmint leaves make great bushes. Hershey miniatures can serve as a door or window. Stack Life Savers for a chimney; add cotton for a smoke effect or use a chocolate kiss for a chimney.

Try making a thatched roof with cereal squares. Try creating different styles of houses, churches or school buildings and make a fun winter village to display at Christmas time. This activity makes a great tradition for the holidays. Invite the neighbors or relatives to share in the fun.