Thanks for the suggestions. I did not consider partner airlines. I also forgot about the smaller markets. I made a crazy iten going through ORD to MKE back to ORD then to DFW ......... ended up with a $1,000 fare. I'll try the shorter suggestions.

I do have a little help in the form of a $500 voucher for staying the night in ORD and watching the final episode of LOST.

Thanks again!!