New camera!!!

So I caved and decided that I had to have a DSLR camera. We really don't have a lot of extra money right now but I decided with the money I got for Christmas as gifts and with selling my other camera that I just recently bought I could swing a used SLR and maybe a lens or 2. SO I bought this:

A used Canon EOS Rebel XTi. It came with the standard lens. Which I am going to replace ASAP. It is not a great lens to begin with (well that is what everyone I have asked said) and the one I have since it was used has a few little visible marks on it. The lady I bought it from did always have a UV filter on it though so that is good. However I can already see a difference in the quality of the shots I am taking just in 2 days. YEA!!!
For all of you pros out there I am looking at the:
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II lens (I have read that it takes great indoor shots in low light which is what I need)
and then in the long run once I get more money saved up
Tamron SP AF 28-75mm f/2.8 lens
I also want to replace the lens that came with the camera, Canon EF 18- 55mm f/3.5-5.6 II standard lens. Any good not too expensive (like not as expensive as the Tamron one) alternatives?
Any other main things I need? Do you really need a UV filter, lens hood and things like that?
Also has anyone had any experience with a Light scoop? I don't have the money for a good light right now and I was wondering if anyone has used one.
Thanks everyone!

Oh and I have been reading Super-Piper-Callie-Docious's page about getting a SLR camera. GREAT STUFF! I found her through Ashley's inspiration page which has so much useful information looking at it makes my head want to explode (in a good way that is).
So here is one of the first pictures I took with my new camera.

SOOC

SO MUCH BETTER!!!! SQUEEEEEE