Well I can afford the 550d but the question isnt a matter of if I can afford it or not, its if I need it.
I actually found a really sweet deal. Its a 50d with a 25-135mm lens for $1100.
get a 50d with a tamron 17-50 lens
then get decent a 50-150 or 70-200
edit - or just go for a 60d or 7d