A bridge camera sounds like the right choice for you. As the name suggests, these are halfway between a point-and-shoot and a DSLR. They are also called compact system cameras. They generally have longer lenses (i.e. 'more zoom') which are also better quality, and, as well as the usual auto modes, plenty of manual settings. These allow you to experiment with taking more control of the camera, as you would with a DSLR. They generally look like an SLR, but smaller and more compact.

They are generally a little larger than a point and shoot, but not as big as a DSLR, so you should have no problem using them.

Some of your worries may be based on preconceptions born from not owning a camera for some years. Battery life is generally much better nowadays, with the advent of Lithium Ion batteries (though few batteries last months if you leave them in the camera; the charge will 'trickle' out. Just take the battery out if you don't plan on using it for a while).

Transferring photos is also very simple nowadays. Most, if not all, cameras have a simple USB connection; plug the camera in, and the computer recognises it and will ask if you want to transfer - and away you go.

Almost all bridge cameras have a movie function; nowadays they are usually HD as well, and can yield very good results.

There are many bridge cameras on the market. Budget is the first factor to help you narrow down the range; from there you can decide on features etc. Perhaps the most popular camera in this category is the Panasonic Lumix. It is almost an SLR, in that it has interchangeable lenses, but also has more user-friendly features like touch screen controls. There are various others: all the major manufacturers have their own versions. Canon have the SX and Powershot series, Nikon the Coolpix range. Sony, Samsung and Olympus are also major players.

Have a look at Amazon, as they generally have a good range and lay out the main specs logically. The review system is also useful. However, don't go ahead and order anything without first going to a store and actually handling and using a few cameras; this is the only way to be really sure of getting the camera you want.

Good luck, and don't forget, if you get your camera and have any questions about using it, this is the place to come!