Paintshop Pro is a less expensive relative to PhotoShop as far as layering and tools. GIMP is free though.
Also, Adobe has Photoshop Essentials or something like that... It's cheaper with less features, but plenty for the beginner.
Glad you like my pic!
Also, don't forget to watch and learn from the pros here. To name a few: 0utpatient, Cyclone, Cookie Box, Prison Kids. (Don't feel bad if you were left off of this list. You're just not a pro.

Either that, or I just forgot you because it's past midnight. But like I said, don't feel bad!

)
David