It sucks when it is hard to find people who share similar interests.

As to your title "why won't people appreciate my interests?" Well... that's sort of easy. They don't have to. They have their own interests and no obligation to... appreciate? yours. I don't really even know what you want as appreciation.

Your mom does have a point though, about the dolls - you're 32, living at home. You really can't afford too much in regards to collections, and I'm sure you don't have that much space in your bedroom! And, well... her house, her rules - especially with pets.

I guess I see both sides. I can totally see where your mom is coming from. I can see how you might have trouble finding peers who share your interests - I'm 31 and can't imagine collecting dolls (then again! I collect rocks, lol!) but at the same time, I'm happy with my own collections. I can understand how you're feeling unloved from not being able to share your interests - I babble away about mine when the mood strikes me, and also show my friends my collections which I have displayed around in my house. They're happy for me being happy and listen to my stories (everything I collect is from places I've travelled, so there are always stories attached). I'd feel hurt if any of my friends were to respond negatively to me.

I'm sure that you can find online communities who enjoy the same things that you do. There are lots of adults who collect dolls!