Wow, thanks for all of your responses. There is alot to think about.

Glacier, I looked up yours and it does look good. I can forgo the viewfinder if the lcd is big enough. Thanks for that website. I'll check it out...like the fact there are consumer reviews on there. That will help out alot with my decision.

Randi, Lord knows I don't intend to be a professional so I need something that's idiot-proof. Too many options and I get confoozzled. I guess it's pretty much a point and shoot I'm looking at for my first one.

RH and BN: Thanks. I didn't know the difference between optical and digital zoom. I was under the impression that cameras with AA batteries were a pain in the rear because you go through sooooo many batteries. True or not?? I also didn't know about buysell.com so will check that out as well.

I'm heading out for a bit and will check out your links when I get back. I've spend mega hours on the computer in the last couple of days....I need some fresh air. Buying from ebay...I have to remember that buying from the US will cost me more with the exchange, and I will have to pay duty when I pick it up from the PO. One thing I forgot to add is that I want something that I can take real closeup shots with.