e-mailing people for possible jobs - postdoc #1... looking for nonadvertised jobs (Dec/16/2009 )

Good for you, vetticus. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you.

Congratulations Vetticus!
It gives me hope!
I'm in similar situation as you are. This topic came just in time, because my plan is to start organizing my future after I submit my thesis for review (ie. in January - which means I would defend it in March/April) - ie. polish my CV/resume and on-line profiles, write some good template cover letter, look for post-doc positions and job offers, and do what you asked for - e-mail people, and that was the point I was not really sure about, but now it turns it may not be such a bad idea.