Hi
I'm from the UK and have owned a Canon 400d for 15 months. (your equivilant = Rebel Xti. 10.1 mp)
I'm an amateur but have achieved some superb results. Took it to South Africa last year with just the standard lens - 1800 photos - very pleased overall. Have since added a canon 100-300 usm lens.
My son also has had the same camera for 18 months and his pics are outstanding. Here is the link to his flickr posts so you can see what is achievable.
Hope it helps
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stu82/