sweet cheeks...

Six years ago...this little guy:

earned the nickname (or "knick-knack name" as he and Natty call it) Sweet Cheeks.

I wish there was such thing as Sense-o-rama for internet usage (note to self: invent that.) because this nickname didn't come about per chance. Dallin literally has the softest, sweetest smelling cheeks on the face of the planet. I could not stop kissing them when he was a baby....
And even now...

luckily, he still lets me smooch on them.

You know how, as parents, each child sort of manages to hold a special place in your heart for different reasons? Dallin is my only little boy. So I can say he's my favorite son with no reservations. In some ways, he is the stereotypical boy- he tends to play rough, even with his sisters.., he can display some impressive temper tantrums, he gravitates towards sports, cars, etc.. but he's also a softhearted little guy.

*When he was little and I'd sing I am a Child of God he used to cry. For a while I thought it was just because I'm such an atrocious singer, but when I'd sing other things he'd smile or sing along...plus, I noticed at church if they'd be singing it, he'd tear up and cry then as well.
*A lot of times when I lay down with him at bedtime, he'll be very quiet. But after about 5 minutes, he'll say something or ask me a question about something that had gone on earlier that day or even earlier in the week.
*When I go to see him at school he's unashamed and always runs up for a hug and kiss in front of all his friends, and is still anxious to hold my hand through the hallways. I'm sure that won't last forever, but since he just barely turned six, I'm just going to bask and revel in it....

Happy birthday Sweet Cheeks! We love you :)