My Child is a Pig. A Cute Pig, but a Pig.

So earlier this week, I posted a plea in one of my Facebook Mommy groups. I was lamenting the horrid table manner of my now 7 year old. They are down right repulsive. He chews with his mouth open, he licks his fingers and slurps foods I didn't know could be slurped. He's a total marvel that would have a manners expert running for the hills.
I don't want him perfect, that would be creepy and Stepford-ish. I just want him to be less gross.

My fellow mommies came to my aid with virtual margaritas and anecdotal Asprin.

" I'm very relaxed, " one woman wrote, " My son is gross too. My husband (38)  is also gross. It's a boy thing" she said.
 I want to believe her. I have a short fuse, I admit it. But who wouldn't around someone who eats salad with their fingers!

Another woman offered to seat him next to her son and mine would come out roses! Mind you her son has "underdeveloped facial/tongue muscles and fine motor skill issues".
Sorry, that didn't make me feel as better as you'd have hoped.
My son is right on target if not exceeding.  He's just lazy, I say!

This boy of mine won't use a napkin while eating chicken wings or pizza. He doesn't wipe them on his shirt. The dear little handsome boy, lick his palms! YUCK!

In short, I still have to remind my son to use his napkin, chew with his mouth closed and eat over his plate. I just hope I am not doing that when he's 20!