Originally Posted by XNAflyr

If you flew 4 segments that could have been accomplished with less stops, you are technically in violation of the SkyMiles rules. From http://www.delta.com/skymiles/about_...ules/index.jsp:
On connecting flights that require a change of plane and flight number, mileage credited will be calculated based upon the distance from origin to destination for each segment of the trip. However, use of connecting itineraries in lieu of nonstop and/or direct flights for the accumulation of additional mileage is not permitted. Delta reserves the right to limit mileage credit for an itinerary to the number of connecting flights actually traveled or the maximum number of segments shown in Delta's published schedule for a connection between any two cities, whichever is less.

If you stir the pot too many times with them over this mileage request, they may throw the book at you.