Hi Celena,
There are so many good choices it's hard to say what would be best. My advice would be to find a reputable dealer so you could see several models at one time. See what feels good in your hands. Your budget would be another consideration. One consideration would be to get something that you can expand on as your skills and budget allow. Something like the canon xti. Priced under $1000. it's a good choice. I mention canon because it is what I am familiar with. There are other good brands as well.If I did not shoot canon I would probably have nikon.
If you are looking for a more basic camera without interchangable lenses you might take a look at at the canon powershots My wife and son have the canon S3 IS. The get some awsome results. Price for this one would be in the mid $400's.
Whatever you decide, welcome to the hobby.