I come from a family of 6. We too had "family style" meals w/ all the food on the table and being passed around. I really remember it was like a pack of wolves. We'd all have to hurry up and eat to get seconds before someone else got it! And my dad never thought a meal was complete unless there was desert!
MOST days we do not have food on the table at my house. We fill our plates in the kitchen and then walk to the table. That way if anyone wants more they ahve to really want it in order to go back to the kitchen! My kids have AWESOME eating habits! I am so proud of that!
Donna (my real name too!)