Hi Starkiller,
congrats to your newly contracted model for at least the next 10 years!
Given that I have my own model contracted, I can understand your excitement too.
I'd counter-propose you alternative option - get a high-end PnS camera instead (e.g. Canon's new S90 or Lumix LX3).
Here's my reasoning:
1. Easy to carry around = more chances and occasions you'll use it capturing your model's growing moments. You'll already have a diaper bag, pram, etc, to carry on outings... oh, and your baby to carry from time to time.
2. These PnS have the same features that allows you to control, Time, Aperture and ISO value like DSLR does.
3. These PnS have F2.0 aperture - beats all the entry DSLR's kit lens pants down!
4. If you don't plan to get new lens for the next 3 yrs, then why pay more for a camera that allows and you don't use it? 3 yrs will fully depreciate anything you buy now anyway.
5. If it matters, they have as much attention (from people whose follow photography hardware) as an entry-level DSLR, or more.
6. You can always jump into DSLR in the next 3 yrs anytime. These are electronics consumables anyway - there'll be always a better version coming up every quarter (cross-brands). Also, it'll depreciate like your laptops too.
7. They are CHEAP!!
If you die die must get one - get the PnS AND a 2nd-hand body (1st owner absorbed most of the depreciation for you) + a prime lens (F1.4 or 1.8).
30mm prime lens is ideal for evening dinners (everyone's seated), family gathering kinda distance. It should take mid to full body portraits about 2-3m from you. Any lower focal length (i.e. <35mm) will cause distortions (imagine looking at yourself reflected off a giant silverball).
50mm is not suitable for the crop-sensors you mentioned as it will be too tight framing - restricted to mainly head-shots portraits.
Hope this help you re-consider your options. Have fun!!!