I agree with iCandi and if you start working with a tablet will be really hard to back to the mouse (personal experience) the detail level you can reach with a simple Bamboo is amazing.

desperately want a cintiq

Can you get me one of those too when you're at it?

I use a wacom bamboo pen&touch. It is very good. I use it for surfing on the net sometimes. I love it. Very cheap and good work on it
And it looks nice

I agree, I have the bamboo pen, its work much better than expected compared to the more expensive alternatives
Looks stylish and the pen is very responsive
Much love for it