Field Mice in the Pantry!

We have been visited by tiny, cute, and very messy brown field mice. Early yesterday morning I was cleaning Mama's pantry because the signs of their visit were everywhere. I thought the job would be hard but doable. Before too long I realized that with Mama washing the glass bakeware and bowls, I might just be able to finish. As I was cleaning I discovered that the little rascal had eaten into a box of cornbread mix, about half dozen potatoes, one onion (must not have been to his taste). The biggest mess came from where he had chewed open a bag of coconut flakes. I couldn't believe all that coconut came from that one small bag. It was everywhere. There were piles of it on three different shelves, on the floor, and in the potato basket. What a job!

I saw him later that morning! Just about the time I got everything back into the pantry he scurried out from underneath the curtains across the room. He hurried back and then peeked out again. He must have decided that I wasn't a threat because he ran across the room and disappeared from site. I must say that I was startled at first; but, he was so cute! He had adorable little ears, the brightest eyes, and was so very small. Still he had made a very big mess, didn't belong in the house, and was a dirty menace. So, he had to go!

On the way out to lunch we stopped at the hardware store and bought two traditional mouse traps. I'd bought one of the new ones where once you caught them you didn't see them and threw the entire trap away. I had placed it in the pantry a couple of days ago. It was baited with peanut butter, as directed, but evidently they were too smart for the new and improved model. Since last night we have caught three of those little mess makers and they won't be back to bother us again. Mama says there may be more but we probably won't catch them until tonight after the house gets quiet. I wish they would take the hint and leave on their own. (sigh) I know that won't happen.

You guys better watch out!