So far, all good - if not, at times - conflicting advice. A few additional points:

1. Speaking of "dead end," Nikon and Canon are THE big kids in the world of 35mm photography. If you want to increase the chances that your film equipment purchase is a dead end, then don't purchase either of these brands. Translation: Consider these brands very seriously before plunking down your hard earned cash.

2. As has been stated in this forum many times, the camera body is merely a "light box." Spend more time and money on your lens decision and you will probably be more satisfied in the end.

3. There are a lot of reasonably priced, lower megapixel digital cameras out there that might very well suit your current needs. At this point I wouldn't concern myself too much with expensive DSLR's and their interchangeable lenses. A fixed zoom may be just the ticket for you.

Good luck and let us know what you decide.