New Camera help????

[Rick D]

So I'm in the market for a new and better camera (DSLR)? I have read SOOOO many sites on why this one is the one to buy that I just don't really know what I want or what I need

So where should I start? First some background on the uses for the new camera.

Car shows
Sporting events (my kids school sports)
And just different stuff I see on the road during the day that I think is cool

My start up budget is in the $600 to $800 range, and then I can add other lens as time goes on?? What would you start with??

Next would be what software should I use?? Free or buy?? I've looked at a few online free ones and Picasa seems nice and is free to start??

Thanks for the input guys