When I was twelve years old, my parents purchased a pair of ultra practical boots for me. I threw a tantrum. Come hell, high water, or a blizzard, I was an image-conscious pre-teen who would not wear clunky winter boots.

And now, 16 years later, LL Bean boots top my most-wanted list. Warm and practical? Yes, please. Mom and dad would be proud.

My only regret? There’s snow in today’s forecast and I haven’t purchased a pair yet.

{images via 1, 2, 3}