I agree, it's difficult to remember them all.  Let's face it, it's
impossible.  So I make a separate folder for each client, write up notes for
each consult (face-to-face or phone) and file each folder alphabetically.
When the client is up and running I take the file out of the cabinet and put
all the stapled notes in my "Archives".  Fortunately I'm very far behind so
as the call comes in I make general friendly noises while frantically
searching in my filing cabinet and looking up my notes.  If I can't find the
file I say something like, "I haven't got your file in front of me at the
moment, remind me how old your baby is ... what happened last time we spoke
.." which usually brings it all back.  Making notes is so time-consuming,
but really worth all the time because I can pull a file from my Archives for
a previous baby when working with the same mom now breastfeeding baby # 2 or
3 and find out *exactly* what happened.  (Amazing how history tends to
repeat itself).

The *real* problem is bumping into a vaguely familiar mom with a 5-year-old
in tow at the supermarket, who greets me by name, like a long-lost friend,
and says "Remember me? ..."

Pamela Morrison IBCLC, Zimbabwe