I agree with Shar about how to get the kids to eat. We like to tell our kids that when they go on their missions, they will be eating all kinds of unusual foods so they better get used to eating things that they may not like now. Also, we have a rule that they can't say, "I hate this!" or "Yuck!". If they do, they have to leave the table and miss dinner completely. Not only is it bad manners, it hurts the cooks feelings!! They don't have to clean their plates but they do have to at least take a few bites or .... NO DESSERT, a fate worse than death!! As they've gotten older, they like to ask, "Well, can I just make myself a sandwich instead of eating what we're having?" NO!!!! Unless there is some medical reason, or dietary restrictions, we eat as a family. My sister in law has 16 (yes, 16) kids who are all picky eaters. She must make 5 different meals a night to try to please everyone. So make a stand now. It won't be easy and you won't be popular, but when has mothering ever been a "piece of cake?" Laura