I previously have documented in these (virtual) pages my alarming spatial ineptitude. To reiterate: I pretty much suck at anything considered handiwork.

The challenge, of course, is that in my new role as father (on top of my old role as husband), I’m tasked more now than ever to perform Bob Vila-like tasks around the house. It’s like a trial by fire; every time I must prove to myself I’m not as much of a total spaz as I’ve always thought.

And so it is with great pleasure that I report my latest triumph: Installing a child safety gate at the top of the staircase.

No, the process did not go smoothly (I had to redrill a fresh set of holes after using a drill bit that was too wide the first time around). And no, it was not without panic (though, for the record, I did not curse once this time). I even made a second trip to the local hardware store, for nothing more than four measly screws.

But, ladies and gentlemen, as I live and breathe, behind me at this very moment is a fully functioning gate protecting L from falling down the stairs.

Next on my list is a pair of bookcases for the baby’s room. Those are on my agenda for one night this week. By Friday, with all of these manly tasks completed, I may go do something totally crazy, like watch a rodeo. Look out, Mike Rowe. After that, I’m coming for you.