The Jacket Dilema

I have needed a new winter jacket for the past few years. However, like so many of us moms do, I kept pushing my needs aside in favor of other things. Not to mention, I spent quite a few of those years pregnant and buying a new jacket during those times just isn't a very smart idea.

So this year, Eric finally twisted my arm enough and convinced me that I was going to finally get a new jacket. To help matters, we had a gift card for Kohl's that we received as a Christmas present. And the after-Christmas sales at Kohl's are phenomenal!

I fell in love with the first jacket I tried on. But I couldn't just take the first jacket I saw. I had to see what other options were available and price compare. There was a second jacket that I liked, although I didn't like it as much as the first. It also wasn't as warm as the first jacket. However, it did cost $20 less.

I couldn't decide and the kids needed a potty break, so we threw both jackets in the cart and headed toward the bathrooms. Eric took Alex and Olivia while I waited with the other two and debated over the jackets. My frugal-minded brain could just not let go of the fact that there was a $20 price difference between the two. I finally decided that I should go with the less-expensive option. Even though it wasn't as warm and I didn't like it as much, it seemed the wisest financial choice.

When Eric and the kids came back, I told him I had decided on the second jacket. He shrugged his shoulders, (he knew how much I liked the first one) and asked if it had anything to do with the cost. I said no. He shrugged but accepted my answer. As we walked back to the jacket section, he told me all the things he liked about the first jacket. I completely agreed with him, but I still felt torn. So I said, "okay, maybe it does have a little to do with the price." He laughed and put the second jacket back on its rack. We bought the first one.

And you know what? I'm so glad that we did! I just love my new jacket. It is so warm. It has cuffed sleeves that keep the snow out and a soft collar that keeps my neck nice and toasty. I think the color is fantastic. I don't know if I've ever owned any clothing this shade of green before, but I like the difference. I know I wouldn't have felt this way if we went with my initial choice. I also know I wouldn't have been as warm.

Which leads me to a point I've made in the past, but sometimes have a problem practicing myself. There is a difference between being frugal and being cheap. When something is a better quality, more durable and functional, and just an overall better option, it's sometimes okay to spend a little extra. Was the extra $20 we spent worth it? Based on just the warmth and other features alone, I'd have to say yes. Do I still feel a little guilty for going this route? Maybe a little, but only until I step outside!

What would you have done in my shoes? Which jacket would you have purchased? I would really love to hear about it.

For more Things I Love Thursday, stop by The Diaper Diaries.