Every time I find food that my daughter will put past her teeth and swallow with a smile I'm thrilled and willing to share. After years of experimenting with new foods and techniques for getting her to eat, I think we're finally making some progress.  So for all of you parents of picky eaters, here's our eclectic top 10 for the holiday season:

1. The macaroni-and-cheese recipe on the Mueller's macaroni box. She loves it. Who knew? Give it a try.

2. French toast. A touch of almond flavoring and a pinch of cinnamon and sugar in the egg/milk mixture make all the difference.

3. Clementines. Easy to handle. Easier to peel. Sweet to the taste. It doesn't get better than that.

4. Romaine lettuce. The color accommodates her vegetable-wary eye: not too green.

5. The mint-flavored hot chocolate at Dunkin' Donuts.

6. Ham loaf. Not sure how to explain this one.

7. A sausage-and-provolone crepe with sauce at Rachel's Creperie in downtown Lancaster. (Her favorite place to eat!)

8. Lemon bars from Wendy's Homemade at Central Market.

9.  Minestrone made from scratch by me using a recipe from friend Lena. I love this one because I don't think my daughter has a clue as to how many different kinds and colors -- other than green -- of vegetables are hiding in that delectable broth.

10. Mashed potatoes, clam chowder and kiwi, not necessarily in that order or together.

Just in time for Christmas -- maybe -- a long-awaited farewell to chicken fingers and french fries.

Oh, and if you're looking for some tips to help you with your own picky eater, visit:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/children's-health/HQ01107

I can't make any promises, but if you're like I was, you'll be willing to try anything!