Hello again, guys. Thank you all for your advice!
I narrowed my choice to the XTi finally. Besides the D40 and XT, I seriously considered the D80. I loved the feel of it, and I was intrigued with Nikon! But I found it awkward to look at the top LCD for settings. My hand(s) felt twisted. I like that the LCD is on the back of the XTi, and it felt more comfortable.
Plus there was the additional $200 for the D80. That was definitely an issue.
So, now comes the choice of lenses! If you can believe it, it's been more traumatic than choosing the camera!
So, here are my thoughts. Mind you, I don't have a lot to spend, and as it is, I am pushing my budget pretty far. I am hoping for about $800 or so for lenses, but I have a feeling it will be more.
I like to shoot outdoor nature (backyard bird feeders, etc) and I love macro.
I realize I will have to wait for a prime macro, and I intend to get one in the future.
So for now, I really need a walk-around kit replacement and a zoom.
I am on the fence about immediately getting the nifty fifty, but I will eventually add it to my collection for sure, since it is so inexpensive and useful.
For the zoom, I think I will go with the $550 Canon 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens. It fits my budget and I am a newbie. I really like the IS and I have read many favorable reviews.
The walk-around lens is the one that I am confused on.
**Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4.5 Macro $350. This isn't a TRUE macro. The macro is 1:2.3 and focus distance is 8 inches. Not the best, but it might satisfy me until I get a prime.
**Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 Di II for $420. Definitely not as good with macro as the Sigma. 1:4.5 and 10.6 inches for focus distance. It is a faster lens, but will it suit my needs?
**Then there is the Canon EF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 II USM (no IS) for $236. This didn't get great reviews, but it is cheap. Pretty slow, and I figure it shouldn't even be on my list, except for price.
Anything else?
I have been reading reviews and forum posts like mad, and I am learning a lot about what to look for.
I have been reading the post on this board about "posting your gear" and it has been helpful, but confusing at the same time.
Thank you all!