Hey Lori,
I was afraid to poke myself too, and after 7+ years I'd still be afraid if not for my lancet device. I use the
Accu-Chek Aviva Multiclix Lancet Device. I love it because there is less recoil when I hit the plunger and it rarely bruises my fingers. It also seems to give blood on the first try about 95% of the time, which is a much higher percentage for me then with any other lancet. You can buy these at Target for around $18 and the drums to refil it (102 ct) for about $13. This is worth the money, trust me!
Also, take the strips tomorrow and see if you can exchange them for the correct kind, maybe even take your monitor with you to make sure you get the right ones right away!
****One more thing, if you decide to keep this meter, the following link is a must read.
FreeStyle Promise™ - Diabetes Resources For Your Lifestyle
It's about how Freestyle helps you with your co-pay for testing strips!
Good Luck, Lori!