Looks like I have some apologies to make.  I was not offended by
the comments recently about Lactation Assistants.  I was disturbed
by the *monitoring* discussion.  I woke up this morning realizing
where the sore spot came from, and it had nothing to do with
breastfeeding.  Eight years ago I apprenticed as a midwife with a
wonderful woman who was a good *mentor*.  She gave me a great
deal of autonomy as soon as I felt ready for it.  I worked with her
for two years, then apprenticed with another midwife who
*monitored* absolutely everything.  I can't tell you how many silly
mistakes I made while someone critical was watching over my
shoulder.  The situation became  unbearable and I eventually gave
up being a midwife.

I like to think that what we're doing as LCs is being positive, being
mentors, and being positive influences.  I'd like to see a mid-level
designation that would indicate someone with basic bf knowledge
who is building management skills.  Let's do it.

Jeanne Fisher, Austin, TX
LLLL and IBCLC