We have the Canon EOS 400D which I think is pretty similar specs to the 1000D now. I love it. It is very easy to use and gives great pics.

We have had it for 2.5 years and it still looks as good as the day we got it and we have taken over 20,000 pics with it. I do intend to learn to use it properly some day, but for now I just leave it on automatic and it does a great job anyway. It is the entry level DSLR, but for family snaps I think it is all you need.

They are reasonably expensive, but you will feel justified every time you press the button and get an instant shot rather than the digital click................snap delay which used to drive me mental.