Well, I pulled the trigger. Ordered the D40 with kit lens and the 55-200mm (not the vr) combo deal from Amazon($569). I did see the 55-200 vr but not included in a a combo deal. If bought separately it would be $180 as opposed to the standard 55-200 for $154. Bought with the D40 as a combo it was an additional $90....worth it I thought.....still do. Anyway, I'm pretty sure that my son will like it. I said that my son is interested in macro but wanted to get him an additional lens to work with and the additional cost seemed worth it. He said that he found a site that sells "demo'd" lenses. I haven't seen it but will check it out. He said that
http://resellerratings.com/ gave it a high mark. Have to check it out. I'm sure that he'll be extremely occupied learning the in's and out's of the Nikon and macro photography will be secondary for a time, afterwhich he can find that "perfect" macro lens.
I'd like to thank all who have responded to this thread. Your advice and suggestions have indeed helped. After the holidays I'll post an update on the success(fingers crossed)............failure(shakes head holding a tumbler with two fingers of Bushmills over ice)
. Thanks again!
BTW, Clix Pix. I enjoy your postings on the Monthly picture thread. Isn't time to update your sig to add the 300
Cheers