reply to all of the good people who answered my initial question:
thank you thank you for your informative posts.! This morning I
purchased a Sanyo Eneloop charger with 8 rechargeable batteries from
Costco for about $25. On a different thread Eneloop was very highly
recommended because the batteries do not lose their charge as others
when not being used and come fully charged when purchased. Best, Aaron

You won't be disappointed with these batteries. Read this thread :


A further advantage in using the AA's is if you happen to not have
your rechargeable at hand or ready you can always purchase a non
rechargeable set of AA's in either alkaline or the non rechargeable
version of a Lithium AA. Always consult your manual first before using
AA alkaline's or AA Lithium's. Some cameras do not recommend their
use. Most do.