I have been a longtime Canon user and after having the 35mm version of the Rebel I finally upgraded to the digital version and I haven't been disappointed yet. I love the features it has, it has allowed me to rekindle my passion for photography and I have a chance to experiment.
One thing though, splurge on a better lens. The lens that comes with the camera is fine but I purchased a Tamron 28-300mm lens, it allows me to take close up and zoom out without changing lenses.