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I must have forgotten that once little ones learn how to walk, it quickly progresses to running. And by running, I don't just mean moving faster but growing up faster, too. I guess the new found independence that walking brings fosters a whole new love of independence. Independence springs exploration and with exploration a toddler is born.
Thankfully at this point, Matilda still loves a good snuggle. Yet, if the baby gate is left open for more than a second, she is off and running towards the Christmas tree. And really, that is what I want. I want her to run towards life. I want her to fight for independence. I want her to continue to show me the way.
But it takes time to let go. When I close my eyes, I still see that sick little baby, holding on to her life. And my heart skips a beat.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5_AGt8u0klvA1Uzq7qSWvVP1_mDo9HZlpfkjmogMfe3lpt0MB5xqi0FJiKNYZltZcSJSuWEtNsFwUPpShZYHEPcDJNJx88U-mIAQrvm_U4iDfnmBxp5aZCu0RLR5wKAShSSFDe_c4Ec/s640/run1.png)
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![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQPOt8nbyV8j_RTmxZmKMIFzIuyveasHusffZYQt_IYKIUsPp8IxP5oCfCUbxKTPpGBA6h7GonkM2crKhcvuA09a-4Rs1FsoTc5E0GnXz5w5Iv1t5l0Oj3rY1ojPnk8vcu6xImDcWayS8/s640/run2.png)
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