Yeah, as Michelle knows, I have always been a Canon fan for their point and shoot cameras. My current model is an SD550. It's just too darn slow to capture those precious moments of the new puppies, and the video is poor. This camera is getting GREAT early reviews, and it also shoots in RAW, and shoots 720p hi-def video.

Panasonic Lumix LX5 Review | PhotoRadar

I think it's the perfect camera if you don't want to step up to a DSLR, but you also want quick shutter speeds, manual controls (also in video), RAW capability, great low light shooting, and a pretty wide aperture to get descent depth of field for a point and shoot. Should be out in the next few weeks, and judging by the early reviews, will sell out early!