I have the D60 and I love it.
True, the person operating it is a big variable in the results, but having
a proper tool that lets you express your creativity is not something that can be ignored. There is a difference between being excited to pick up a camera and being frustrated every time you pick up a camera.
The D3100 compares favorably (or better) to the D60.
I'm very happy with mine.
You could search for threads by my name, I've posted a lot of photos here.