Eureka!

I think I found the answer. It is a jquery/ajax issue.
http://docs.jquery.com/Frequently_Asked_Questions#Why_do_my_events_stop_...

I think the problem is that we need to use either re-binding or delegation so that event handlers continue working after a AJAX call. I think I understand what they are saying ... but I am not sure how to implement it exactly.

I found a way to insure zero orders are automatically set up with payment_method = free order no matter what happens with the ajax call ... but now the free order option shows up no matter what along with all the other payment methods.

I am hoping someone understands enough to fix this.

thanks,
Katrina
www.ambereyes.net