I find it quite exciting each time on the expected full flight if I could get the op up. To confess, out of 4 legs, at least 1 of them (sometimes 2) are J for free.
If not given Y to J, I either sleep or watch ICE.
By the way, I don't exchange miles for the free flight. I use miles to upgrade myself on a crowded (but not overbooked) flight.
Compared to other FF programs, Skywards is far better. To claim missing miles is extremely easy and fair. You get it done in 24 hours, sometimes only 15 minutes.
Star Alliance is a TOTAL MESS when you claim and exercise miles. Terrible. It is my own miles but I must follow up like I am begging. Pathetic!
Enjoy the world as it is. Emirates is one of the best at the moment.