Point and Shoot Recommendations and Help!

Last fall when my pocket book was stolen, my point and shoot camera was stolen along with it. As well as all of the pictures that were on my camera. I am getting much better about downloading the pictures on my camera on a regular basis now, I would hate for that to happen again. But my biggest problem is the fact that I replaced my camera that I had (which I was on my third model of) which I absolutely loved and always took great pictures for me. . .

With this one based on reviews and recommendations

The boy and I have both noticed the quality in pictures is very different. I can't take pictures quickly. It just doesn't seem to be working for me. I love to take pictures and share them with others, and I always have this camera on me. Eventually I would LOVE to take a photography course and buy a camera like this

But with all of the house projects, this is not in the budget. . . for a while. . . so in the mean time, I am thinking a new point and shoot would be a great idea. I may even try to sell my Nikon Coolpix on Craigslist, or I may keep it as a back up. I would love any recommendations. I did look into this last fall when I bought this one, and it did come highly recommended, my sister said it was a great camera, but do I just stick with what I know and get a new Sony Cybershot. I have had Sony digital cameras since 1998 and really enjoyed every model I have had.

What about Canon? Panasonic? Olympus? Would love to hear if anyone has any recommendations, anything that they use? I know so many people just use their phones now, but I guess I still like to have a point and shoot as well.

Thanks so much!