If Palin truly wants to be president then she's in the best role for it - state governor. She should run for and win re-election in 2010. Then compete in the primaries in 2012. That will be the true test, and her chance to show what she didn't show in 2008.
Perhaps you are right. Sarah Palin now has the chance to thicken her resume with a full term + as governor and then, in 2012 the “not ready” charge disappears (which seemed to be the only significant rap against her.)
One thing I will say, though, is her “outsider” status was, as much as anything else, what appealed to me most about her. I am quite sick and tired of folks saying how much “experience working with______________” is essential for being a public servant, given that too much government is the very problem America faces. Folks that are comfy-cosy with Washington, embraced by the Beltway, praised and lauded by the media are the very people we should be most wary of. Sarah Palin was clearly none of these!
I think a big part of it really is sexism too. Yet, having her serve competently as VP will allay any fears those naysayers may have. They will get more comfortable seeing her in that role.
But maybe you are right. Perhaps a stellar primary campaign will be enough. Although, most dems and indies aren't even paying attention to us during that time.
Heaven knows, she will be much better off on her own without the McCain restraints around her neck like dead-weight.