+1 for spb mobile shell. i'm currently switching back and forth. here's a video of it if you've never seen it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQi1xC3LciQ
if you choose to keep your basic today screen, do a search in the software forum for plug-ins.... htc home is a great plug-in that has a launcher, contact favs, time, message notifications. today agenda is a great free appointment plugin too