"Yeah, I guess too much mothering ruins it - except when you're sick, of course. Can never have too of it when you're sick, though - at least I can't, but then, I'm a horrible patient."
At the challenging look, Ernie held his hands up in surrendering motion. "Not to worry, I don't pinch the unwilling. There's plenty of blokes I'd happily pinch instead." He grinned and put his hands down. "I guess someone did. I for one am glad. It's been too long. I know you have family outside, but we're your people too, right?"