I lip read. It's very integrated into my perception of speech, so separating what I *hear* from what I *see* is tricky, and some speech I understand because of a combination of both. But I rely very heavily on lip reading. So I'm very aware of when someone is and isn't doing things that make that easy - if I've ever moved you so you're facing the sun and I'm not, or if I've ever tapped you on the shoulder to get you to turn, that's what that was about. And it's always annoyed me a bit when Ear-Nose-and-Throat doctors do things like turn away, or talk when I have my hearing aids out (because, hey, they're sticking things in my ears), or talk from behind me. I never thought I would be able to top that.

Two days ago, I met with a surgeon who specializes in cochlear implants - I'm a strong candidate in some ways, although a high-risk one in others, so that discussion isn't over yet. So, as a CI specialist, she deals entirely with deaf and hard of hearing patients (and their usually hearing parents; she's a pediatric specialist). She remarks on my audiogram, as well as on how well I compensate for my hearing loss (as evidenced by the way we were speaking, my studies, and so on), and comments that I must read lips extremely well (among other things). This is true; there are those whose lip reading skills are better than mine, but I'm definitely up there.

Then she turns to her computer to look at my notes, and her back is to me - but she keeps talking. Still, she's among the best at what she does.

EDIT: Dad told me a funny story about my youth. When I was young enough to be held in an adult's arms, apparently I would grab your chin (very forcefully, I guess) if you were talking and not looking at me, and turn your head for you. So I was aware of this on some level even before I was diagnosed (and got haring aids).