On the awesome recommendation from AndrewH, I went with the Canon Rebel XT. I think that's the same one Ashley uses too. It really is a HUGE difference from my old one, the Canon Powershot s3 IS. (That was brand new till I bought this one!)

He also recommended a 50mm lens, that I got for a decent price. And by decent I mean I would have had to pay just as much with shipping to have it delivered on Monday.

Those setting are in auto, and just lucky shots. The colors came out so true because the cypress mulch was so close in color.

But yes, I am absolutely loving this camera!! Now I just have to learn how to use it.