Be sure to watch the speed, too. I am looking for something around 35-350 (or so) but the speed makes such a huge difference and the lower that number (or faster) the lens the BIGGER the price tag...makes it tough. One thing I keep reading though is that the lens can be a lifetime purchase whereas the camera body might change ever 2 or 3 years (for me make that at least 5 years) so you really want to put the money into the lens. In other words don't skimp on the lens...hard to hear when you just want to jump in and get that new lens NOW!!
Other than speed you might spend some time analyzing what you photograph. Do you do a lot of micro things or do you photograph more scenes, landscapes, etc.? Just my two cents worth...