Personally, as far as baby items are concerned, I would never use the WalMart registry because their selection is so limited. But I completely understand what you mean about wanting to be considerate of your guests locations and budget constraints.

Have you TRIED the Target or BRU registries? Both have far better selections than WM and are available online, saving you the hassle of going to the store and registering for things. You can do the entire thing from the comfort of your computer and the selection of items is FAR better than WM's, IMHO.

It also saves those friends who aren't close from having to find a store because they can order and ship it directly to you all at the same time.

As for the expense side of it (since this is your first) the best thing to tell your friends who are strapped for cash is to ask for simple things like diapers, wipes, onesies and blankets. You can NEVER have too many of these things and they typically aren't going to break anyone's budget.

Another suggestion (not registry related) is to ask those friends who may live near by if they can stop in and spend some time with the baby so you can get some sleep. Believe me (with a 9 month old under my roof!) you'll value an hour of sleep after your baby arrives more than ANYTHING someone can buy for them. It will make them feel good to help you out and won't cost a dime!

I think you are a true fan of WalMart to go to the lengths you did to register and I hope they recognize that. But you do have other options and they might work out to be much easier on everyone in the end!

Good Luck and CONGRATS!