Babyproofing

We've been gradually babyproofing for the last month or so--putting plug protectors in our unused outlets, installing cabinet "locks," adhering corner pads to the edges of our coffee table, etc. I also carefully draped several thick blankets over our brick hearth, so that at least a bump against it wouldn't result in a trip to the emergency room.

A concern we'd been discussing for a long time, however, was the tangle of cords under our TV table, which posed a major strangulation hazard. Matt bought zip ties to loop the cords up and hold them in place, but there was still the problem of the Internet router and other things that wouldn't fit in the shelf. As Kate started creeping and--like every child--was drawn to things she shouldn't touch, we found the under-the-TV area would definitely be a problem.

Add that problem to my desire for a less cluttered room and Matt's desire to upgrade our television, which was starting to develop a dark cloud near the top of the screen, the solution that emerged was.... flat screen TV!!

I know it sounds like an elaborate excuse, but seriously, there are many benefits to this plan. Personally, I think it was worth the price of the TV to take the arrangement of our den from this:

to this:

Even with the books, mugs, and gadgets still covering every other surface in the room, I love how much more open and less cluttered the room looks. (and yes, Matt loves the TV and put The Godfather in the DVD player immediately) And most importantly, Kate will be safer with the TV table and mess of cords gone and the bookshelf tethered to the wall to prevent tipping when she starts climbing. Woo hoo for babyproofing!