Years ago I had a man and his wife from Kentucky come up to buy a cow. Let me set the scene for you...

You need to just relax now. Don't over think things. Mother Nature will take her course.. No need to milk her out. Just make sure all 4 quarters are working correctly. IF you intend to calf share (which I do not recommend, but some people prefer)...

I believe that a bottle raised calf is still the best way to raise a heifer. Due to the human interaction. Yes they may grow better and fill out faster on the Dam. Yes it is easier for working care givers and life schedules etc...