I have had the Canon Rebel for over a year now and I like it very much. I went through three point and shoots and was never happy with them because of what you mentioned, slow shutter response. I tend to shoot lots of sporting events my kids are involved with, and just could not do a good job with the point and shoots.

I always had Canon SLR's, so it was natural to stay with the Canon line because I have the lenses already. The Nikon also feels good and you can't go wrong with either.

Go for it, the prices have come down somewhat and if you are into photography, you will have a blast with it.