Sorry for this newbie question, but I haven't been able to find a proper answer in the forum or the M&M website.

At the end of last year I reached Silver, and it lasts until February 2012, or longer provided I earn 35k status miles in 2010 and/or 2011. So:

- If I reach those miles this year, will my status be extended now until February 2013 (or beyond)? Or will that happen once the current validity ends?
- And will surpassing the 35k mile threshold in both 2010 and 2011 expand my status longer than if I only do it during one year? If it's the latter, since Senator is out of my reach, next year I might prioritize some of my other cards...

Thanks in advance.