new nikon d50 purchase questions

[WsW-WYATT-EARP]

I got approval from the finanace dept. (wife) to make the move to my first SLR... I have been reading alot of stuff around here about the d50 and the d70. You guys are great for info!

My dilema begins with is the D50 the right camera for me. I have read the differences between the cannon 350 and the D70. The cannon seems like I wouldn't be happy with it (cheap feel, buddy of mine has one and is not happy with it *2x shop in 15 months) and the D70 requires more post processing which I have not honed my skillz on yet. I am upgrading from a nikon coolpix 5700. Everything i read this is a great first slr camera. I am not looking to do professional pictures. Just normal usage (family gatherings / xmas/ kids sports / school functions/ then playing with it to get the "perfect shot" :thumbsup: ) is there a better camera out there or have I picked the right camera for my needs?

My dilema continues with what to buy to start with.....
this package from ritz ... pretty basic ..
http://www.ritzcamera.com/product/SL...igital-cameras

or another package from cameta 1 nikon lens and after seeing the other thread about tamron lenses 1 lens from them ...

http://cgi.ebay.com/Nikon-D50-Digita...QQcmdZViewItem

this is a big purchase and a bit intimidating with all the different types of lens and cameras out there... I am happy with my nikon 5700 and would like to stay with nikon.. I guess I am looking for some reassurance that the camera is a good camera and can serve me for my needs for years to come (unless of course i decide to upgrade) and if either package is better than the other or if there are better packages out there that i have not seen or anyone knows of.

Or should I wait til after the D80 is released for a possible price drop ? Or is this camera being discontinued due to it being backordered everywhere and I should get it while I can?

any comments , suggestions , remarks are greatly appreciated ...

THANKS
BEN