Beginner SM - What MUST it have?

I've decided to take the plung and purchase a sewing machine to start learning how to sew.  I am not sure what features/accessories/etc that a basic machine should have.  I don't know if this will become a serious hobby but I'd like to use it for simple gifts, hemming, home decor and later on dresses for my girls. 

Is there a particular brand I should stay away from?  I haven't determined my budget yet but I would guess it would be less than $150. Don't know I could convience DH to spend more on something I've not done yet!

What are the basic functions that a sewing machine should have? 

Thanks!  I'd take my grandmother shopping with me (she sews beautifully) but she's too far away and I need some suggestions before I head to a store completely clueless!

Thanks!
dana

What dealers do you have close by?

Whatever you buy, get it from a local dealer who can offer you a few introductory classes and service. I've found the shop that I bought my machine from to be very helpful.

Some basic functions you may want to look for are:

• Needle up/down- with a push of a button, when you stop your needle will automatically either stop in or above your fabric. This is a great feature that keeps your stitching straight even when stopping to adjust your fabric.
• Easy to find and engage reverse button- having to use this often, you might want to be sure it's a simple maneuver.
• Stitch selections- you should try out different stitches, i.e. zigzag, satin stitch and buttonholer. These should be easy to switch in and out of and have little or no tension adjustment. It will be a constant headache to have to adjust tensions or mess with a bunch of buttons to simply go from straight to a zig zag stitch.
• And lastly, easy to fill and replace bobbins. Filling a bobbin should be an easy step and not one that you have to retreive your manual to accomplish. Replacing your bobbin back into the holder shouldn't be a headache either.

These are some things I would take some time testing out when purchasing a new machine. Keep in mind that there will be a learning curve with every machine, but it still should be fun and not dreadful.