Toddler
Soft giggle,
You throw your arms back and run
Knowing I can see you
As far as the beaten path will go.
Trees line the way on either side,
Pitter patter on soft dirt
You think you’re as fast as the wind;
I let you believe it’s true.
So, you go,
and I follow just close enough,
Pretend I cannot catch you,
But those giggles catch
In my ear,
a smile is placed
On my mouth
in response to the sound
Of pure glee
From a toddler running free.