Young & Sweet Only Seventeen

 As per usual, I am in actual disbelief that Natalie is getting older. 

17. 

Insane.

She absolutely loves Mamma Mia so I ordered this cake for her at Smallcakes. They did an amazing job. 

For the longest time, on her birthday, I'd write how Natalie was a loud baby. She cried. Often. And I'd joke and say, ha, it's probably because she thought she was going to be born into a wealthy family and got stuck with us. 

But now I wonder if it's because she reincarnated and was pissed that she had to start all over again. When you peer into her eyes it's like she's been here before. It's odd. Some people don't believe in past lives, but we do, firmly. 

I am pleased to say that she grew up to be much happier. She got used to us and all was okay again.

Plus, she let me dress her up however I wanted. She even kept hats on, which people marveled at. "My kid rips her hats right off!" Mine didn't. She seemed to understand they were part of the look.

Honestly, I shouldn't be so shocked that as she grew, she still wanted these put together looks. I mean, I started it from the very beginning. Luckily I was able to find most of her outfits for up to 70% off. I love a good sale!

No surprise here when she wanted a specific birthday outfit for her birthday party. She loves a theme and hers was 60s space age? I can't remember. It was space SOMETHING and yes, this look gave me Mamma Mia vibes, which went with her cake:

Can you just see her starting to sing Super Trooper in this? 

We found it on Etsy at the Coquetry Clothing store. They have a lot of incredible designs and will make you the outfit with the sizes you send so it will fit perfectly. 

She's not pleased that she has to attend school on her birthday, but she is excited to spend it with her friends. I'm even dropping off lunch, which I rarely do, and then she gets to pick where she wants to eat dinner after rehearsal. She's currently playing Elvira in Blithe Spirit and has absolutely loved the part. The final show is Friday and I know she'll miss it. 

I hope she has an amazing birthday! One more year until she's considered a legal adult.

I'm scared.