Another backer for Nikon. Progressed from D70s to D200 to D2Xs. Get yourself down to the camera shop to get hold of them.
You might prefer the feel of a particular brand to another. I liked, and continue to like, the layout and feel of a Nikon over, say, a Canon.... personal preference.
They say that the image comes from the photographer and not the camera. Maximise how you feel with a camera to benefit your photos.
Would also suggest visiting dpreview dot com for comprehensive forums and reviews