hfly, the premise of your entire post is wrong. For those of you who have been paying attention, I'm sorry I have to re-state this once more: The actual premise of my original post was simply to say what you yourself hfly said in the last line of your own post - savvy use of miles is determined by the one using the miles and not by anyone else, or, to blatantly plagiarize a previous poster in this thread, savvy traveling is in the eye of the traveler. (Of course there are those cases where some aren't really familiar with how the miles game is played and really do waste miles but we're talking here about those of us who at least have a basic understanding of the relative worth of miles.)
Sorry if I sounded like I was breaking my own rule by accusing others of being un-savvy by using miles for upgrades, which would be just as ignorant as saying that using miles for coach fares is un-savvy. It's just that, for me, In my present physical health and financial condition, using miles for upgrades would be extremely un-savvy FOR ME. This thread has simply evolved into a discussion on that theme, that is, discussing what each of us considers worth our miles. And I have to say, after reading these posts, my definition of savvy mile-use is definitely maturing. I hadn't considered some of the points made. Thanks all for the enlightenment.
So anyway, all you lucky people with zillions of FF miles to toss around carelessly, I envy you for not having to give a rip whether you're being savvy or not with them. I aspire to be just like you! But until then, don't pity me as you watch me pass through your comfy first class on my way to the back of the bus with my fellow proud cattle. Just give me a thumbs up or at least a nice smile (especially if you're a cute, single female).