When the digital revolution hit, we had Canon film cameras, so we went with Canon digital, because all the lenses were compatible. No matter which brand you get, make sure you get the motor drive attachment that holds the extra batteries. The extended bottom of the camera makes it feel better in my hands, and also has a shutter button on the bottom right hand corner. When you take a verticle shot, turning the camera counter clockwise in your hand, you'll have a shutter button in the same spot as when you take horizontal ones. You won't have to reach your arm around awkwardly. I'd suggest Canon because I'd used them for years. Elan II E (film) and Canon 10D & 20D. Either way, you'll have a blast. Don't go too high end early on, because they lose the on-camera flash that can come in handy when you're first starting out.

I just noticed you're looking at the rebel. Not a bad camera at all. h: