**Update (for the five people who care)**

I did it. I bit the bullet and saw the former editor.

And there I didn't get any discouragement. I didn't get any frowns or "Hmmm, well...." thrown at me. Nope.

Instead I received encouragement. While that particular editor isn't involved in the search (which is well under way, I might add) I was put in contact with the one who is. And they told me to go ahead and send in my resume. Copy some of my clips. Throw my name into the hat.

Oh god, fingers, toes and any other appendage I can possibley cross is crossed right now. I want this job so bad I can taste it.

Ben & Jerry's Coffee Ice cream, my favorite.