Heritage Keepsakes

Siella’s love for the American Girl Dolls started two months ago, on her fourth birthday. Our first trip to the store was a magical experience for her, but I think it was equally as memorable for Jason and I watching her browse all the shelves, loaded with dolls and accessories, carefully studying each and every one. We had no idea which one she would choose, and tried not to interfere, leaving the decision to her.

I urged her to take her time, so she scoured every floor, and finally by the third level, she spotted a Bitty Baby with blonde hair, green eyes, and she said, with sheer confidence that she was the one. I have to say, Jason and I were expecting her to go for an older doll, but as it turns out, a baby seemed like the perfect introduction into the American Girl collection.

When asked what her name would be, Siella bellowed Heart Star. In the past, she would change the names of her dolls and toys, but Heart Star was here to stay. She totes the precious baby everywhere we go, changes her outfits daily, and cares for her special doll. I’m really proud of the way she has taken on the responsibility, which she had never done with other dolls.

This week, I received an invitation from the American Girl store, to celebrate the launch of their new BeForever character doll Maryellen Larkin, a 1950’s inspired doll. The flagship location arranged a host of activities throughout the day, I thought it would be fun to bring Siella back to the store, along with Heart Star.

Our afternoon started with brunch at the American Girl Cafe, a first time experience for the both of us. When we seated, our server brought over a highchair for her baby, and the excitement on her face was was everything. She ordered all by herself, and we enjoyed our meal, chatting and giggling the entire time.

Once brunch ended, we headed over to check out the newest character, Maryellen. She comes wearing a sweet striped swing dress, little crochet blue cardigan, and black Mary Jane shoes. There are so many clothing options for her, but my two of my favorites include an ice skating outfit, and the classic 1950’s poodle skirt, that includes a little dog, named Scooter. The celebration was wrapped up with performance, inspired by 1950’s swing dance music, and a cool activity stations, where she crafted fun cat eyed glasses for herself and her baby.

Our entire trip home, Siella started talking about how much she adored the “big” dolls, at American Girl. In anticipation of her continued love for American Girl Dolls, I had planned to give her her own big girl doll on her first day of pre-k or Christmas. Witnessing her excitement from meeting Maryellen Larkin, I couldn’t resist and gave it to early, when we arrived home. She totally flipped, and I made her promise to share it with Gemma, and take extra care of it. So just like that, we are now fully into American Girl heritage keepsakes in our house, and I can only imagine what her Christmas list will look like.

And I’m even more psyched to offer the newest BeFoever Maryellen Larkin to one luck Stroller In The City reader! Good luck friends! (Giveaway closed.)

Newest American Girl Maryellen Larkin

 

This post was sponsored by American Girl.