SouthernAtHeart:
Thanks, yes that all makes sense. I see what you mean about burning bridges, but it shouldn't be a problem.
I'd offer to compile the Sparkfun code with WinAVR for you, that's easy enough, but I am suspicious that it is not the current version. The Makefile in the download is set to compile for an ATmega168, and the web page says there's a 328 on the board. I might drop them an email to confirm. Actually they should be able to supply a current hex file, and should have, as part of the download. IMHO 
But maybe it makes no difference to you.