I think that you should talk to some other salesmen. They are trying to steer you towards some higher-priced models that you don't need

>> I originally was wanting to purchase either the Nikon D5000 or Canon EOS Rebel T1i.
However, when talking with some salesmen earlier today they all completely tried to steer me away from Nikon due to their plastic lenses that they say aren't comparable to Canon's lenses??? That was news to me..what are your thoughts?

All manufacturers entry-level/kit lenses are made of plastic. For a long time the Canon ones (the 18-55) were pretty poor while the Nikon ones were and still are pretty good but with the latest version (with IS) Canon have come up to Nikon's level. Avoid the mostly-metal Canon 17-85 IS lens - it isn't sharp enough to match the sensor of the latest bodies (T2i).

>>I was also enlightened with the new Canon T2i model today as well as the Canon 50D.
So now instead of 2 models, I now have 4 I'm trying to decipher between. I'm really wanting to stay under $1500 and preferably around $900, but I'm willing to spend an extra few hundred dollars if that means much better quality and a camera that will be sufficient for years and years to come.

The 50D is the same sensor as the Rebel T1i in a better body. It's intended for professionals who need to shoot fast-moving action (sports). Don't spend a lot of money thinking you'll keep the camera for a long time - you won't. Buy something you can easily afford and change every 3-4 years.

>> My main purpose for getting a DSLR is my daughter who is now 18 months old. I literally take pics of her daily, my husband is always giving me a hard time!
However, with the point and shoot sony cybershot camera I have now, I always miss so many "moments" with the delay of the camera. I really want something that's quick but also that says professional quality when it's printed.

Same needs as most people who buy a consumer DSLR. Just about any entry-level model should satisfy you.

>>I like the idea of having a video camera/DSLR all in one which is what drew me to the first two options in the first place and I know the Canon 50D doesn't have the video option like the other 3. BUT if the 50D is a much better Picture taker, then I'd give up the video...if not, which camera would be best for me?

Current DSLR's are not very good at doing video (no autofocus while filming). The 50D is a more sophisticated tool than the T1i if you learn how to use it. If you just use it as a point and shoot then I don't think you would see any difference in the results.

>>As my daughter gets older I'm sure there will be sports/games to take pics of so I just want something that will keep up. I love shooting pics of wildlife/animals as well.

If you are in good light (outdoors) then a consumer camera and lenses should be enough. If you're shooting sports indoors or at night then this needs some more serious equipment. But your daughter is only 18 months old. Get a Rebel or a D5000 for the next 4 years then see where you go.