Hi all,

What a wonderful forum. I have scrolled through and already found a lot worthwhile but ... here is my specific scenario. I will be eternally grateful for ANY help...

I have been a US Air FF since I was 10 years old, literally still have the old grey card! hah! I booked a div. miles trip for the second time ever for our honeymoon to Europe (London -Gatwick from DCA). I am already kicking myself that 1) I probably should have saved the miles to upgrade instead... tickets are cheap! and 2) I probably should have joined preferred for a potential free upgrade to 1st class and/or companion ticket for my honey and I!

Here's my questions:

1) the preferred trial - am I correct that if you don't earn the requisite miles 7500 by sept. 30, you're out (at the latest)? the program requires sign up by June 30 - you have 3 months (90 days) ... my honeymoon begins Oct. 5!! lol. Also I already booked the tickets (one award, one for $$) Am I out of luck? or will US air run this deal again with a later end date? anyone have the inside scoop?

2) Could one BUY the requisite miles? Do points count (from shopping / "offers" or only actual flights? Would buying to keep preferred be worth it? Or is there another way to buy an upgrade (or sweet-talk one)? I'd love to make this a great start to our wonderful trip.

3) The companion tickets? How does that work? What would I need to do?

In short, ANY tips for enabling myself and my husband to be to fly first class for our honeymoon would make me verrrrrryyyy happy. If being preferred is what it takes, is it worth it?

I'm making spreadsheets but having trouble figuring this all out!

Newbie who promises to return the favor someday if I possibly can!!!