Photoshop Elements is around $100, I think, or maybe even less if you shop around. That is what I use and I'm very happy with it. I've read reviews that state it is more than adequate for non-pros like you and me, doing a lot of the things that regular Photoshop does. See, e.g., this article: http://www.graphic-design.com/Photos..._elements.html

I, at least, do not need all the advanced options of reg. PS that are geared toward the professionals.

Good luck (and be patient with layering -- I'm still working it out, even after three years, but then I'm a total computer doofus).