As I read these post I am reminded of something I was once told. Set your expectations high but be realistic. As you endeavor to find a new position, remember that you will go on may interviews and be turned down or ignored on a large portion of them. Set you expectations for the ideal salary and job, but be realistic. There is a lot of competition for employers to sort through. Don't expect to get the first job you apply for, you must endure for the long haul of job hunting and may have to accept a less ideal position for less pay to get you by. After you accept a position there is nothing that says you can not continue your search for the ideal job. Good luck!