Dear Melissa, I think I am going to print up a form letter....
We were all beginners once upon a time (a LONG time ago).  Experience and
expertise comes with doing, just like anything else we humans learn!
Please don't be intimidated by us!

Do you homework, read, read, read....that's what we do.
Listen, listen, listen, adsorb like a sponge...that's what we do.
Brainstorm...that's what colleagues are for...that's what we do.
Don't over or under estimate your abilities.  Know when to ask for
help...that's what we do.
Be flexible...go for what works, not rules...that's what we do.

Welcome to Lactnet!

Sincerely, Pat in SNJ, USA