I've discovered something about myself recently.

[OrmIrian]

Was having a chat to my manager the other day. He was talking and waving his arms about like a loon. I gave him a look and he said "I was just copying you!" "I don't do that!" "Oh yes you do. All the time".

And when I thought about it I had to admit that yes, I do talk with my hands all the time. Unless I'm nervous. I always have but wasn't aware that it was a trademark as it were. I asked DH and he confirmed that I do.

I've been watching myself since then and I also compulsively touch my DC, stroke hair, touch cheeks, kiss them, squeeze their shoulders.

Is that odd? It seems really odd now I'm aware of it. I don't think my DCs mind but perhaps they do?

Anyone else conduct conversations like a windmill?

Not odd. I do this and so does my best friend. I sometimes get onto myself doing it and feel like a bit of a tit but lots of people do it.

Oh God I do the dc thing too.

It sounds rather lovely than otherwise. Would be surprised if your children mind- far better to be warm and tactile that the reverse, surely? I utter strange sounds and make up stupid words all the time, if it's any comfort.

Yes I do both! I don't worry about either though.

I modified my laugh a few years ago when I realised I had developed this strange horsy neigh

ROFL at 'horsy neigh'!

ROFL at 'horsy neigh'!

Provided y0u're not also touching, stroking and squeezing strangers and colleagues, I'm sure it's fine.

soupdragon - I have to stop myself I bashed some poor chap with my shopping bag on his arthritic knee the other day and whilst apologising and making sure he was OK I found myself starting to put my arms round his shoulder It's what I'd do to the DCs....

scummy - I also sing make up words to tunes incorporating their names and nicknames and the things they are doing. Oh the shame if anyone heard me... I really will have to stop that soon. DS#1 is 12 now.

I don't do the windmills (probably too busy playing with my hair) but I do do the compulsive DC touching thing.

In fact I have just got back from school where I realised I had given DS1 at least 2 hugs and half a dozen kisses in the space of the first 30 seconds. I suppose this is fine but it was in the middle of the playground and probably desperately uncool for an 8 yr old to have to endure.

Thankfully he doesn't seem to mind. I can't help it - if they are within reaching distance they get some love and they'll just have to lump it!!

It can be a bit of a shock to suddenly get some idea of how others see you can't it?!

Since i've been a mother I find myself doing things i'd do to my dc in adult no child situations like removing a bit of fluff from a friend's jumper.

I do the singing thing too! One son is starting to give me a look occasionally but the other still grins.

Please tell me you didn't kiss his knee better!

Nope. I do have some inhibitions.