Great camera, easy to use and on screen prompts are foolproof

I am one of those people who research's every item I buy to make sure I am buying what suits my needs and is the best in its class for the price. I tried over 8 other digitals before I selected this one. I did not know it would be shortly discontinued, however, perhaps because it offers features other camera's in its class doesn't offer for the price.
I have read the reviews on the battery life. Guess what? The manufacturer recommends the use of lithium batteries and that is what I bought. Well now, the truth of this matter is that I have owned the camera since Dec 2006 and this is June 2008 and I am still using the same batteries I first installed. Yep, that is right. Don't bother using regular AA's or extended life types. Lithium is the way to go for long life. I have taken upwards of 1000 pics with this camera and the original lithium batteries are still in use and although I will admit that now the flash is taking a longer time to recharge between pics ( it's been 1.5 years )I will have to replace them soon. Enough about the batteries. Too bad the camera had a bad rap from poor battery life. I find the camera is wonderful. It records videos for those precious moments when video clips are needed and the memory cards are interchangeable from other makes. I use a standard card. The features are the coverable lens which also acts as an on off switch. The ability to set the F stop as in a regular 35mm camera if so inclined. The ability to set the film speed ( yes, I know it doesn't have film) from 100 to 400 which is great when taking shots of fireworks or in a moving car. The ability to change the white background and lighting etc. Altogether it offers the features of a very good 35mm at less that 150 dollors ( when I bought it ). Can't say enough about this cam.