plugin issue with jQuery (first plugin created)

I have jQuery included in the head tag of the header template for my theme.
A simple test proved it worked.

jQuery(function($) {
    alert('We are in.');
});

loaded using script tags.

a second test using the script source for the plugin also worked:

<script type="text/javascript"
   src="<?php bloginfo('home'); ?>/wp-content/plugins/WhatsUpWaucondaCalendar/scripts/WhatsUpWaucondaCalendar.js"></script>

when i reference the script file in the plugin php source i get the
“jQuery is not defined” message.

1. I’m guessing plugin’s load before any main pages.
2. i’m using firebug to see the messages and the script file is loading.
3. my plugin lives in a directory under the site.

It has to be simple and i just have to not see it.

Thanks!!!
Kim