Camera suggestions?

It has become quite obvious to me that the Spud is faster than a speeding bullet, more mighty than a locomotive.  Ok, I don’t know what the heck I am trying to reference here, but Spud is really fast and my camera is not fast enough to capture him and it kills me that I am missing all his wonderful expressions.  Just this week he began sucking his lower lip under his upper and making smacking noises when he eats.  He also made his very first fish face!  And I have no photos to remember the moment later (not that I would have had a chance to grab a camera, but I can dream). 

Anyway, back to the point.  I filed for the Spud’s social security number this week and was told it will arrive next week (hallelujah!) and I am already planning on how I can help stimulate the economy with my tax return (really, Mom, I promise I will pay you back before I buy anything!).

I want a camera.  A really nice digital SLR that I can grow into.  A DSLR that I will allow me to capture every. single. precious. moment of Spud’s life.  I have asked a couple of you out there that are profession or semi-professional (or look professional) for suggestions and so far I am hearing Nikon D40 and Canon Rebel.  I am leaning towards one over the other, but I thought I would ask for input from ya’ll.  If you were looking for a new camera what features would you want?  What do you wish your current camera had? 

Thanks for your help and God speed the US postal service and the IRS!