For many years I dabbled in FFP. I had a few credit cards and earned a few free domestic (US) flights. Then a year ago (actually may have been exactly a year ago today) my brother's nephew posted something on Facebook about the BA 100,000 mile deal. The link he provided took me to View From the Wing Blog, which I started reading occasionally. At some point, I started exploring other blogs and websites, found FlyerTalk in March and quickly got hooked on the "game".
So, now I am happily accumulating miles and points. The funny thing is that I have flown only once this year. But that flight was on miles (as was my previous flight in late 2009). I have also used my miles this year to give a friend a flight to see her Dad just before he passed over, and I've been able to cash in my skypesos for some useful gift cards.

I can look back to my childhood and see where seeds were planted that have lead me here. I have always enjoyed playing and working with numbers. My parents were generous people and I have always find it easy to receive and give gifts. And I have traveled a fair amount and my family travels a lot.
I don't know where I am flying to next, but I do know that I am much better prepared for my next trip and it will probably be very inexpensive.