The first digital camera I bought is the Kodak Z740.  It feels like a "real" camera in my hand and was very easy to use. 

It is probably not too strong to say I didn't live until I bought this camera.  What a difference. The zoom feature is excellent and the quality of  my photos improved considerably.  I was previously accustomed to a Pentax SLR but hated being at the mercy of a 24 hour photo-finisher. 

I bought the photo printer as well and we take it on vacation -- print our photos as we go, so to speak.  While the viewing screen is a little small, it's a standard size.