It's much more difficult to have scruples when you are naked.

You know why? No pockets to stash them in.

JZ, it is understandable and commendable that you're worried about going back on your word. And if you had already given your word to Company B for an offer of 100K a year but then Company A came up with a position for the same amount PLUS use of their company jet, I would say, "Hey, GreedyPants! You already said yes to Company B!"

But that's not the case here. This is a case of needing money to eat and clothe and feed your family. And if you do find that you need to go back on your word, a heartfelt apology made either over the phone or in person will go a long way.

Charlie Brown's Christmas tree: $24

JZ, you need to make the best long-term decision for you and your family. I know you have scruples and that is admirable and wonderful. But you haven't signed anything and you will be living with this decision for a very long time. It needs to be the right one.

But I already accepted! I haven't signed off on it, but I emailed them an acceptance of the offer! I'd be going back on my word!

I feel ya. I went through similar turmoil when I accepted my current job. In that case the other offer didn't pan out and I ended up happy with the position I'd initially accepted but while the whole thing played out it was awful.

But if the offer-ers suddenly got their first choice back or the bosses kid or the budget changed or there was a re-org or... or... or... the offer would go away. Don't doubt it. It's not even a matter of you being ethical, it just feels like one.

Oh geez. My sister, bless her heart, is *just now* trying to find a Wii to get the kidlets for Christmas. As in this Christmas. Crazy woman.

I don't know why she thinks that I'll be able to find her one is she can't find one.

JZ, what all the wise people said.

Nicole, I may have a connection, but the language would likely be Chinese. You want I should try?

JZ, I do admire your scruples. I just think that, like everyone said, right and wrong gets a little fuzzy when you bring family into the equation. I think you should at least investigate this other possibility, but do so as quickly as possible. If it does turn out that you want to take the other offer, the only remaining scruple I see is letting the other company know as soon as you can.

In unrelated news, the kitten has a cold and keep sneezing on me. Ew.

juliana - would she still be able to pay for it online? If so, then yes, please try! And even if it doesn't pan out, thank you in advance for offering.

I just clipped my kitties' claws. There was much wailing and gnashing of teeth. Now they've had some treats for only howling and not scratching me. I expect them to come curl up again soon, but I'm getting the cold shoulder for inflicting such indignities.