Today’s post is a hybrid (you know, it’s an eco thing). First, sparkling, clever commentary. Then, the dishy details of the mama bird giveaway package. Why do you deserve a chance to win all these FREE goodies? Because you’re a super fab, sassy, working-her-ass-off kind of mama. That’s why.

So I begin…

The little bastard is back. You know who I’m talking about. On Saturday, Rick headed to New Jersey with 3 year-old Dylan, leaving me and nearly 1 year-old Summer protecting the homefront. No problem. We were ready. The pest control guy came this past week, dropped poison and filled holes. Apparently, there was a gaping hole behind our fridge that a dog (never mind a few mice) could sashay through. Plus, a sign that read, “Welcome to the mouse bed and breakfast. Free continental breakfast served daily.” Hole filled. Vacancy sign removed.

Not long after Rick left on Saturday – I saw him again. That furry little critter raced through the kitchen. I screamed. Loudly. It does seem uncanny that EVERY time Rick leaves the apartment, the mouse reappears. I’ve never seen both of them here at the same time. Hmm… I’m just saying. That tidbit aside, I was HYSTERICAL. Really. Nervous break-down material. I called Rick sobbing, insisting we move into a hotel. The Hotel Gansevoort is just up the block. A quick check of availability. Only $678 a night. O.k., Plan B.

My neighbor offered the services of his cat. Perfect. Then he just happened to mention that when this kitty catches a mouse, she likes to bring it to you in bed as a gift. Scrap that. Fast. So once again, crappy Plan C. One of our building staff came up and laid those tantalizing glue traps.

And later that afternoon… there he was. Stuck to the glue trap. Going nowhere but still moving. I think I’m going to throw-up. I’m really not a “glue trap” kind of girl. I’m more of a “staying at the Hotel Gansevoort” kind of gal. Thankfully, my super Kent came and took the little rodent away. Kent always has extremely helpful things to say like, “Hey, at least it’s not a rat. I see tons of rats coming out of the construction site next door. If we had rats, we’d all have to move out.” Yah, that’s great. Now I’m envisioning mice AND their rather large, creepy cousins, rats.

I really am in full mouse post traumatic stress syndrome mode. Every shadow, every reflection, every elmo toy is a scampering rodent. Oh please, oh goddess of all mice, please let that be the last time I see one of these creatures in my apartment. Let them play happily outside. Let them find warm shelter elsewhere. Or let them all die a peaceful, tranquil death far away from me. That’s my wish for this most joyous and merry of holiday seasons.

mama bird notes

Let me tell you about our fab.u.lous giveaway package. One lucky mama bird reader will win the following…

A beautiful toby + rei bamboo and organic cotton fleece baby blanket in chocolate. This soft, eco-friendly blanket ($60 value) is perfect for wrapping up your little baby. Also, a scrumptious baby gift.

These adorable, fun gloveables from Feather Your Nest. What could make cleaning more fun than these too sweet waterproof gloves? Finally, something to smile about when you’re washing all those dishes. And helps keep your mama hands nice and soft.

This Poco Bag by Bumpkins from EcoStyle Baby. It’s a perfect little bag for your cell, keys and cash when traveling with tots to the coffee shop. For those times when you don’t want to lug around that big purse. Plus, EcoStyle Baby is offering a 10% discount to all mama bird readers. Simply put in the discount code,”MamaBird.” Good til the end of January.

The Estee Lauder Holiday Spirit Lip Gloss Palette. Your lips will glisten and gleam in the stunning shades of the season. This limited edition product will turn you into one glowing mama.

And finally, this oh-so-necessary book, “Dear Peppers and Pollywogs… What Parents Want to Know About Planning Their Kids’ Parties.” We all know the stress of planning a birthday party for your little one. Finally, some help. Author Lisa Kothari believes no matter the budget or limited time, a great kids’ party can be planned.

Details coming tomorrow on how you can win all this divine booty.

Our contributing mama Jordana Bales thought pregnancy would be the mother of all science experiments. Click on “contributing mamas” under the menu bar to read her itchy notes from the underbelly.

We have a new feature called askamama. This means you get to ask.a.mama anything you want. Send your question to kelcey@mamabirddiaries.com and I will post it. Then (and this is the very best part), other moms will share their brilliance. Don’t you almost feel better already? Don’t let your panties be in a bunch for a moment longer. Shoot me an email. Don’t want your name posted? No problem.

Meanwhile, new mama Rachel is looking for advice on soothing her darling yet demanding newborn. Click on askamama on the menu bar and help a gal out.

It’s the season to give. But how do you pick the best charity? It’s easy when you have a watch dog in the house. Click on “drooling over this” under the menu bar for the 4-1-1 on choosing the right nonprofit.

You may have noticed that the beauty diary is no where to be found. That’s because our glam mom Alex will now be posting her beauty product must-haves in “drooling over this.” So yummy mummys, continue to drool away.

Finally, we have two winners of the FlipClips $25 gift certificates. Congratulations mama bird readers, Kristen M. and Pam F.! Even if you didn’t win, you can still get $2 off, in the month of December, by using the discount code FC989SJ2. Flip on birdies.