Keeping Abreast!

I was offered the chance to take a lactation class this week. The last three days we went through a manual that was at least two inches thick. I have seen more nipples and breasts than anybody should in three days time. I have learned how to position a doll to latch correctly, and I have learned how to use almost any breast paraphernalia you could imagine.

I have always wanted to be able to help the NICU moms be more successful with breastfeeding, and I have nursed quite a litter myself, so I thought this would be interesting. Did I mention I got paid to go? Anyways, I learned quite a bit. I learned all the things I did wrong and that I would do differently if I had to do it all over again (please, no!).

I also learned some very funny names for lacation specialists. They aren't the favorite people in the hospital and they have been called nipple natzis for quite a while. I also heard, lactavist, boobologist, breastoppo, and titty twister.

That being said, I would like to think of myself as a lactavist. I really believe human milk is the gold standard and we should do all we can to help mothers achieve their goal of breastfeeding their babies. As long as it is their goal and we aren't "forcing" our agendas on them.

So to all my friends at work who may want to call me Sister Breast, go ahead. We can still be friends.

Those of you who have talked to me recently may have heard me whine about YW. I kept thinking it was time for a change and I probably needed to be done. Well, it has happened. I was released from Young Women's yesterday. I am not quite sure how I feel about it. Now I am sad. ( Have I mentioned that I have a lot of mood swings).

I have been the Mia Maid advisor for four and a half years. That is quite a long time. The girls that were in my class when I started are now in college and doing amazing things. It is really exciting to see them grow and change.

When I was first called, I was really nervous. Those of you who know me well know that I am a big geek. I was scared that the"hip" (by writing hip I have just proven that I am indeed a geek) teenagers would think I was just so uncool. But they took me right in and didn't care. (I think they liked laughing at me).

I was very lucky to be able to go to a couple of girls camps with Aly. We were able to have some really cool experiences together. Megan starts YW this year and I am sad that I won't be there with her. But their new leaders are awesome and they will do an incredible job. I will miss you guys!!!