many thanks for the suggestions.
we were re-booked on Mexicana by Alaska. strange though they do not have a partner listing .. I will call them ask ask for it to be re-booked or maybe some miles returned ..can't hurt.
I fly southwest in california for work and its a goverment contract so i'm stuck there.
my experience is rather limited otherwise. trips to hawaii etc..
I will join AAdvantage right off and check to see if they have a CC to switch to and stop speading myself around so much on the hotels stays.
I guess I wont be Using the Alaska companion tickets either. waaaaaa !
thanks again , candice