Seriously:
I am most thankful for my two babes, Alexandra (born 3 months early @ 28 wks, under 2 pounds) and Michael (born 2 months early @ 32 wks, 2 1/2 pounds).

Without the excellent care received from the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) there is no way that I would be a mom right now. One babe was given a 50/50 chance of survival, a boatload of procedures and over 2 months in the NICU. The other needed the preemie basics: help breathing, eating and heating his tiny bod. Special care and followup services kept development on track, therapy as needed and a place to go with inquiries for these special little ones.

Both are completely happy and healthy. Throughout the year we buy and donate preemie sized clothing to the NICU. It's our way of saying thanks while helping out other new parents of preemies.

Funny:
The Lou Malnati's Salad. Delivered. Drool. Ordered with extra dressing to use on my own salads (ssshhhhh, Lou can't get a clue on this one or I'm done!)

If I know can find some preemie clothing I will also donate it to our local hospital.What a great Idea.

That would be great! The parents of preemies have so many things spinning in their brains - can you imagine having a baby well before you expected, you weren't ready and on top of it, baby and mama were now sick? This just helps alleviate one worry.

I remember my DD's 1st tiny outfit, provided by the hospital when she was stable enough to wear clothing. The nurse told me that many of their items were donated by the families served by NICU. I was pretty grateful for those thoughtful parents.

We have about 20 outfits for the hospital this year. DD is super excited and DS is still a babe, his 1st revisit to the NICU since discharge. Every time I go it's a complete tear-fest because I know what these loving nurses and doctors did for us, also what some of those new parents are feeling.

I have a special place in my heart for preemies... My son has downs and we have many preemie friends. But what really catches my eye about your post, my sons name is Michael and my daughter was going to be Alexandra, but is Lily Alexandra instead. (Michael couldn't say Alexandra)

How sweet - he must love her sooooo much. Bless them both!!