Arlene you might try looking at the Canon forums
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/index.php if considering a Canon. Also try P-Base
http://www.pbase.com/ where you can do a search of pictures taken with every camera produced and every lens for the camera of choice.
My brother Mr sibling rivalry called me today to let me know he just ordered a MK-III from Canon for $4800 (camera body only) and he doesn't even enjoy photography..
I feel better cause he dropped a 70-200 f2.8 L glass lens today worth about $1800 and made an ashtray out of it..
Point is you can spend a lot of jack on your passion, do your research and purchase wisely.
As for me with a 350D and a 400D I have 5k invested in lenses and accessories but the joy I get could not be bought for any amount..
Mike and Cyn