I read therefore I am.

So when do you buy magazines? I used to religiously buy four magazines per month - one Afrikaans woman's magazine (Sarie or Rooi rose), one English woman's magazine (Fair lady or Femina) and two others (Ideas, House and Leisure, Shape, O, Leef or whatever looked interesting). (I am not counting the masses or Architectural magazines we get at the office).  I never subscribed because I usually bought in each category whichever one's headlines on the cover had an article of interest. With the slowing down of the economy and cutting back of costs, it was the obvious place for me to cut back on. Adding to that the joining of the Book club and having access to great reading matter for R50,00 a month and once a year getting all your year's money back to spend on books you want, also helped in the decision.

But I still buy magazines - every now and again. To read in the bath - you see, I believe that a book does not belong anywhere near water. When on holiday I also treat myself to a few. But these days I find myself buying, not because of the articles, but because of the countless free stuff. I choose my magazines by the attraction of the "free gift" - hence this month I bought the Fair Lady - free eyeshadow (just when my trusty container broke) and free body wash. Value for money I say! Great cover picture too.

So which magazines do you buy and what do you base your choice on? Or do you subscribe? And do you still get the free stuff if you subscribe?