The most common question I get in emails or comments is: Am I too old for dolls? Or, is it ok to like dolls at an older age?
Today I wanted to take some time to talk to you about my experience with getting older and still liking American Girl dolls. It's my hope that this will help and encourage you! :)
The years before being a teenager it's normal and expected of girls to play with dolls. I mean, how can we not? The silky hair, the beautiful clothes, the billion creative ways to play! Plus, the American Girl brand is so different compared to other doll brands, with the unique characters and books.
Most of you know, my love for American Girl began when I was nine years old. I got my first doll Molly and took her everywhere, literally! I loved everything about American Girl and played with Molly every chance I got.
But as I grew up and hit twelve years old, I got the "too-old-for-dolls" blues. American Girl has the age range of 8-12, so I was scared that my days of AG were ending. And when I turned thirteen, I started to get embarrassed of what others thought. No longer did I ask for American Girl clothes for Christmas from my aunt or grandparents, or check out AG books from the library. I seriously thought that there was a rule that after twelve years old, I couldn't like dolls anymore. How silly of me!! I was keeping myself from enjoying my dolls because of what others would think. Caring about what others think more than what YOU think, is the worst!
Thankfully, I stopped believing the lie that I was "too old". If I would have kept worrying, I would have never started my website. I would have never met any of you. And, I would have never had any of the amazing opportunities God has blessed me with over the years.
So my answer to the question: Am I too old for dolls? Absolutely not! I think you can never be too old for dolls, and never too old for a hobby you love! So many people have interesting hobbies; like playing sports, cooking, scrapbooking, reading, ect. Collecting/buying dolls and accessories is mine. If people think it's a strange hobby, don't worry about them. Do what makes you happy!
Fast forward to me at twenty years old, I don't think there is an American Girl age limit. In my opinion, there isn't any reason to stop collecting or buying something you love, no matter what others think. As I have gotten older, playing with my dolls is different than when I was nine, but I still love them the same. Instead of sitting on the floor acting out scenes, I take pictures and share them here. When I was younger, I was always looking for new ways to play with my doll, like hairstyles, crafts, and games. But I couldn't find anyone that loved American Girl dolls as much as I did. I am so happy that I now have all of you to share with!
As my mom has always told me, life is too short to not do what you love. Collecting dolls, included!
If you have any other questions about this, feel free to discuss in the comments. I'll be happy to answer them! :)
