Those experienced in photography out there?

Alright, let me make this snappy.
Basically, I'm really interested in photography. I'm thinking of getting something like a NIKON SLR3000 for xmas. However, before i get my SLR I'd like to practise, and all i have is a fujifilm av100 to practise with. I just need your advice. Should I wait until xmas, or should I practise with this av100? Also, how do I practise? What should I focus my shots on? How do I develop my skills?
Feedback please! Would be very helpful.

Just so you know there's going to be a steep learning curve with your DSLR. Most people who are used to point and shoots like your Fujifilm will see a pretty dramatic decrease in the quality of their photos when switching to a DSLR at first.

You can certainly use your Fuji to practice things like lighting, creativity, and composition. Those things are the same regardless of what kind of camera you have. Once you get the Nikon, you will have to deal with complicated things like exposure unless you plan on shooting in full auto mode.

Okay… You are interested in photography and you want to learn how to shoot with a DSLR before you purchase one? My advice… It doesn't necessarily need to be a Nikon… Don't let people persuade you into buying a brand just because most photographers get this silly sense of power thinking that Nikon is the only way to go and immediately makes you a professional once you put it in your hands. Let's wipe that thought clean and look at this practically:

First, research, research and research… If you go to B&H Photo's website, it will help you tremendously by searching only those brands of cameras that offer entry level DSLR's.

You can purchase a reasonably priced starter camera of this nature for around $500… The sooner you get one, the better, because you can start practicing before "CHRIST"mas.

I do suggest you watch online video tutorials, hang out with photographers, shoot as much as possible, study up on editing software, join Google+, "like" photographer's fan pages on Facebook, study photography, read books… Etc.

You won't be successful overnight, but practice always helps… And by the way, don't be fooled by those loudmouth, arrogant photographer types that claim they know everything about the medium… A true photographer is humble, helpful and always admits that everyday is a learning opportunity when enjoying the medium known as photography.

Merry "CHRIST"mas and hope this answer helps.