TO GEL, OR NOT TO GEL? : GEL MANICURES

I have always been a huge fan of having my nails painted since I was a little girl.  In recent years, I've become a pro at giving myself a pretty good manicure (I'd give myself a solid A) and this has inspired me to collect a variety of nail polish and change the color I'm wearing more frequently than before.  With the comeback of bright colors and nail art, I love having the option to change my nail color according to what I'm wearing that day...and multiple colors on one hand?  Not just for kids under the age of seven anymore.  #partynail

Here is where my dilemma lies.  I recently got a gel manicure (for the second time ever) and I think it's safe to say I am obsessed.  Looks perfect? check.  No chipping? check.  Lasts 3 weeks? check. Wait, what?!  I just can't decide if it's worth the $30+ for a manicure that doesn't change for almost an entire month.  

Everyday when I walk by my pretty collection of nail polish bottles prominently displayed in my bathroom, I feel like a bad mother ignoring my children. 

yes, I really do color-coordinate my nail polish.

 I also can no longer make a spontaneous decision to try my hand at some fancy nail art.

giving yourself a french manicure is much easier said than done.

Is the sacrifice worth it?  I still can't decide!  Where do you stand on the war between gel manicures vs regular manicures?