If your skin is that thin then quit! If the knowledge you gain here is of less importance then a few "snarky" comments, then quit. To me, quitters are losers.
You might consider taking the girls to B&H (420 9th Ave, New York, NY 10001) and let them see all the camera equipment. Friday they close at three, Saturday closed all day, Sunday open at 10AM.
I agree cost is important, but so is the equipment that it supports. A tripod should support one and one half to twice the total weight of the camera and your heaviest lens (think ahead).
If your referring to the Nest, Camera Cottage, as far as I know, is the only person in the US selling it. I've had one for a couple of years and have had no problems with it at all.