I also have the Nikon D50 and I agree- it's a quality camera. I have a smaller Nikon coolpix to throw in my purse, if I think I'll need it and don't want to take something bulky.
I have a Nikon D70. It's great and fast. If you want something smaller, Nikon Coolpix is good. I also have a Pentax Optio which I love. It's small, 5 megapixels, and waterproof.