I just got a One Touch Ultra mini. It takes a little droplet of blood.
The new lancets that came with it, called Delica, are virtually painless. If you use the side of the finger between the tip and 1st knuckle you can't even feel it!

I got my meter free, but the strips are expensive! My insurance pays about 80% of them. I've been insulin resistant most of my adult life, but just recently my fastings are going up. I've been testing during the day, and my levels are more normal then.
It is only the first one of the day that is elevated.
This is called the Dawn Phenomenon.

This is a very good link to look at:
http://www.phlaunt.com/diabetes/16422495.php

One Touch and Abbott (Freestyle mini) are offering free meters now. Both have TV commercials.

I've just crossed that line myself. All these years with conservative food and habits. My mother was diabetic and her aunt too. So I guess genetically I am doomed. My mother started in her early 40's tho, and I am 64... so I did well I guess considering.

I am using a new form of metformin called Glumetza...which has much less GI upset. So far so good with me.