"I have been but little in," said Ninian hastily...

I sent in my application to the Society for Editors and Proofreaders for ordinary membership (one joins as an 'associate member'), which allows for more advertising possibilities, a little more professional cred., etc. I wasn't sure that my training (most of it several years old) and my references would be enough (ANOTHER points-based scheme--they seem to like them in the UK!) to qualify me, and my work experience wouldn't count (it's more than three years since I worked professionally as an editor).

I got a letter in the mail last night with the receipt for my ordinary membership fee. :-)

It seems silly to be so pleased about being 'ordinary', but I am.

Edit: Sadly, I have been informed that's just a receipt for the membership *application* fee. They are still waiting to hear from my references before actually upgrading me.