IMHO----and that is what this is --- Certainly,without question, breastmilk
is best; the direct route is the most convenient, time saving, natural thing;
and the nicest thing is that we have all made the choice to feed our babies
this way.  We seem to have all made it our mission to help women to follow
our path.   If it can't be the best way, as defined by us based on our
knowledge and experience, for every women, then help with the second best
way.  Many mothers choose to abm feed because they think that it is an either
or proposition. Others want the freedom to go to the mall.  Others want the
baby to get only the colostrum.   Many won't breast feed because it will only
be for 6 weeks and they *can't* pump at work.  So why not support what the
mother is willing to do.  If an occasional bottle, or always a bottle  is
their way, then let's help them to provide breastmilk in the way that *they*
choose.  We can educate and support.

   Parenting is more than feeding, and bonding is more than breastfeeding.
 Speaking as a bottle fed baby, I bonded well with my parents and they with
me.  I only breastfed for a short period of time due to the trend of 20 years
ago.  Nobody could possibly convince me that I didn't bond with my chldren.
  I bonded beautifully with my two boys.  To this day, they have no
allergies, no caavities, minimal colds, and, to top it off,  are very bright
(maybe they would have been brighter). One graduated from UC Santa Barbara at
22, the other is a sophmore in college now.  They are quite successful human
beings who have grown up knowing how wonderful breastfeeding is, but do not
feel lost because of the short duration of their experience.  Lets put our
energies towards educating our children, supporting new parents and promoting
the best milk available. (Verbs borrowed from ILCA) But let us not forget
that we can only do our best and parents make the best decisions that they
can make at the time.  Please spare me the reprimands from what may be a
minority opinion but I needed to vent.  Thank you for listening.

           Linda from sunny, warm, and all to dry Southern California