Help!

We are in need of a new digital camera. I was just wondering if anybody had some suggestions. We have had a Kodak Easyshare c743. It takes good pictures, but goes through batteries so fast. I am spending way too much money on batteries. I am not a photographer, but would like a camera that takes nice pictures, doesn't eat the batteries, and doesn't cost a fortune.
So, if you have any ideas, I would love to hear them.
Thanks!

I knew it wouldn't be long before they found the...

MUD in the backyard. Several weeks ago, I sent them out to play while I finished fixing dinner. They were playing so well together and it was quiet, so I knew something was up. I went outside and found them playing in the portion of the yard that is waiting for some kind of pavers or flagstone. I think the grass had just been watered so there was some fresh mud.
Usually, I would have stopped them right away and been upset that I had to clean up a muddy mess. (Yes, I am that kind of mom, but working on trying to relax more.) But then I realized they were already muddy and having so much fun. Why should I ruin it? So I let them continue to play and go crazy with the mud.



It finally came to a stop when the mud was in their hair and on their face. I'm sure Katelyn tried to eat some too. I think they were also done at this point and happily undressed and came in to be cleaned up. I love how happy they look in this picture and that I relaxed and let them have this kind of fun. I must have been in a really good mood this day, because if it happened today, the outcome may have been different. :) Yes, I have been a grouch today and woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning.