KitKat: I don't know if you've stated where you are, or how cold your winters are, but, regarding the leghorn... There is a rose combed leghorn. That would provide the leghorn experience without the frost bite issue. Of course, your husband may be basing his leghorn stereotype on the huge...
Oh, if you are ordering from a hatchery, place your order just as soon as they post availability. They often sell out on the popular or more rare breeds. You can order in January for a March or April delivery date. Check out Henderson's chicken breed chart.
First, I want to welcome you to BYC. Have fun planning for your flock. Second, I want to tell you that there is no wrong answer here. Either way, you will choose the correct answer for you. Third, I'll tell you what I'd do. I'd spend the winter getting the coop ready, and doing a lot of...