You can write a simple script or build a complex system.
It can run through the web or on the command line.
It has a huge library of powerful functions.
I'm a PHP guy as well. For similar reasons as wirehopper, but I just like the fact that there's so much support out there for PHP in way of forums / tutorials.
I've been wanting to try Ruby on Rails. As a web developer, that's been one of those buzz words I hear a lot. Plus, many who use and enjoy RoR come from PHP.
I am a freelance PHP Programmer. I like PHP, as I can get good freelance projects in PHP from various sites like Ajeva | Remote Work, Simplified
Ajeva is a start up company with good people, who seriously consider their providers and work closely with them and understand the difficulties faced by freelancers.
I agree with PHP. It easy to learn can do most things you would need, and has great support online.
Though I have found myself liking the JavaScript world lately its fun to work with visual elements. Working with some of js libraries out there now can give you some really great looking apps.
before i was using a PHP but now, i am much comfortable using ASP.NET, it is nice because all forms you need is installed to it, there's no any hassle in coding, just make sure you know what you are doing.