AVOID FINANCIAL OVERDRIVE

Dear Dave, My husband and I both work two jobs. Together we make about $53,000 a year, and we’re trying to get out of debt. We have $35,000 in debt, and most of that is on our truck. I’d like to go back to school and become an ultrasound technician so we’ll have more money. Do you think this is a good idea?

—Sarah

Dear Sarah, Getting more education is always a good idea. For starters, I’d begin doing some research to find out what ultrasound technicians in your area are earning. Then, look into the cost of training at a nearby school.

But I would only recommend starting school after you guys have done some work and cleaned up your finances. You have a bunch of debt, and the truck is a big part of the problem.

Sell the truck and move down to something very inexpensive to drive for a little while. Then tear into the remainder of the debt and get it paid off as fast as you can. After that, save up a bunch of money so you can go to school debt-free.

I know that may seem like a long time before you can start school, but chances are you can get this done in less than two years. And trust me, going to school debt-free will feel a whole lot better than having another bunch of payments buzzing around your heads for years to come.

—Dave

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO AVOID MASSIVE AUTOMOBILE DEBT.

Don’t buy your expensive dream car unless you can afford it. Otherwise, you’ll simply be financially enslaved to your automobile.

When you do buy a car, try to put at least 20 percent cash down so the monthly payments are cheaper.

Avoid long-term financing. Shorter term equals larger payments but will save you money down the line.

If possible, pay more than the minimum payment each month so you’ll have less interest in the long run.

ARE SAGGING, PUFFY LIDS IMPACTING YOUR VISION AND APPEARANCE?

If baggy, drooping eyelids are impacting your vision or appearance, you may want to consider blepharoplasty, a safe, effective surgery that removes excess tissue from the upper and lower eyelids, and is often covered by insurance. Locally, one of the most respected providers is Board-certified Comprehensive Ophthalmologist, Shelby Terpstra, DO, who helps patients enjoy improved peripheral vision and a more refreshed appearance.

What Dr. Terpstra’s patients have to say:

“Everything about Dr. T and this procedure exceeded my expectations. There was no pain, no bruising, the healing process was extremely quick. My friends have all commented on how wonderful I look, and requested Dr. T's information so they could get it done as well.”

– Simone Hasker

“I didn’t even recognize myself, that’s how significant the change was! I honestly can’t believe how much better I see, feel and look now.”

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Read more detailed testimonials on our website, www.LakeEye.com.

THE LOCAL CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE PRESENT THE COUNTY WIDE 90-DAY BUSINESS WELLNESS CHALLENGE!

• March 3RD to May 26TH

• $100 per person for chamber members

• $125 per person for non-members

• 5 person teams

• Prizes will be awarded to winning teams

• See individual chambers for details

• For more information call your local chamber:

Eustis 352.357.3434

Leesburg 352.787.2131

South Lake 352.394.4191