The truth is out – I first read about you in Glamour magazine. (Hey, I work in a library; I read everything!) Then I got on the waiting list for your book (which I just read – I agree with most of your advice, so I guess you are an old soul at heart!). Now I am writing in your blogs! All this free fun! Too much!
Congrats!

If you wear glasses or sunglasses, most likely you have spent $300-500 on routine care and/or a pair of glasses, only to find out later you could get a similar, if not exact package for much, much less. Be smart about your eyes, and save money on glasses and sunglasses. Here’s a few ways how:

Take your prescription where ever you like: If you usually only purchase glasses at your eye doctor’s store, you don’t need too! It’s fine to ask to take your prescription home with you, rather that choose between the expensive pairs at the store.

Buy glasses online?- http://www.Eyeglasses.com has a huge selection of glasses that are the same, if not better, than the ones you can purchase at storesl. Best of all? They will usually be at last 50% of the cost.

Get insured- You should see if your employer or personal insurance company offers vision insurance. This covers Ophthalmologist visits, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Premiums run as low as $8.00 per month. Be sure to do the math first…add up the monthly payments, and compare that to the savings they provide. This can help you out a lot.

Get a package deal- If you alternate between contacts and eyeglasses, clinics, Ophthalmologist offices and retailers will usually cut you a bargain if you purchase both in a single transaction. Just ask, because these deals may not be advertised.

Read the reviews- It’s not really a good deal if you purchase a faulty, defective or poor quality product. Make sure you are getting that great bargain. Check the Better Business Bureau first.

Take care of them! – Keep ‘em clean- With eyeglasses, cleaning them properly, and avoiding laying them face down will avoid scratches and an early replacement. Also, take advantage of regular maintenance.

I’ve always regarded insurance as a poor financial decision. If insurance companies are to make money, then statistically, you’re quite likely to pay more than you ever get back. It seems strikingly similar to gambling at a casino. There are some exceptions, I’m sure (like family health insurance through an employer), but my policy is always that potential insurance spending is better off diverted to a rainy day account. Perhaps this would be a good subject for a future article.

I admit I prefer your blog. Your give great advice and I don’t find your blog overtly masculine. For example, how many American men in their twenties, without a fiance, do you know with a “Wedding” savings account? Never mind all of the smart reasons to have one; it shows you have a common life goal that American women tend to talk about more than American men.

Nice to see you reaching more markets. Keep up the great work!