And now we are Eight -- Happy Birthday to Mashup Mom!

Good morning, all! And happy birthday to me -- or, more precisely, to Mashup Mom. Today marks eight years into this mad mashup experiment, so thanks for coming along for the ride. Thanks especially to those of you who have stuck around during the recent changes as I settle in to a new path in the New Year, and welcome to all of you who have found your way here recently.

Birthdays are a time for reflection and perspective: Eight on its side is infinity, so let's make 2017 a year of possibilities and growth. As Mashup Mom continues to evolve it may not look the same by the end of the year as it does now, but I'm excited about the journey and what the future has in store.

I'm so glad you're here that I want to give you the presents: Here in my hot little hands I have a $25 Amazon gift card and two $5 Starbucks gift cards to give away. Want one?

• For your chance to win, just comment here with something (anything!) positive -- because we could all use a little online positivity right now, don't you think?
• For a bonus entry, follow Mashup Mom on twitter, on Facebook, or on Instagram and then come back and comment with which one you chose.

There's a maximum of two comments per household, and I'll pick three random gift card winners from all comments received. Comment to enter through 11:59 PM Central on Monday 1/30/17, and U.S. residents only, please. (ONLY comments on the blog will count as entries, NOT social media or email comments.)

Giveaway fine print

Prizing and information for this giveaway has been provided by me and only me. The winner will be randomly selected from all comments received on or around 1/31/17. Winner will have 48 hours to reply to email notification; if no reply is received, a runner up will be selected. Mashup Mom is not responsible for lost or misdirected emails.

No purchase necessary. The number of eligible entries receives determines the odds of winning. Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited. Please allow 4 weeks for delivery of your prize. We reserve the right to cancel this promotion at any time or to substitute a prize of equal value.