Didn't you run around with Johanna's Rebel for a bit? That's kind of the antithesis of large and bulky... ^_^
This crowd is also very strongly Canon, which as mentioned above can be quite helpful when you need to borrow a lens for a weekend or something. Just devil's advocating, you won't go wrong with either system honestly.

As for where to buy, BuyDig is about the cheapest reputable place I've found for camera gear. If you want customer service though you have to pay the retail store prices and buy locally. C'est la vie.

Agreed on the social situation thing. I'm been watching Ringel lately as he seems to balance it quite well at gatherings.