As for AA vs. UA, I had occasion to ask my former boss about that this past weekend - he had been Platinum on AA until the company went to UA as preferred carrier three years ago. He gave a slight edge to UA, but I got the impression that route convenience would be at least as important, maybe more. (I guess I'm lucky I'm in SFO, where UA fits my destinations better).

Karen2, don't feel bad about the two flights you didn't get meals on. I did about 20,000 miles on AA this year (domestic coach), and the fare was uniformly worse than United's.

When I was working, if I had an early afternoon flight I would leave my office and pick up some salads at the gourmet deli nearby. Sure it's an extra $7.50 (business expense!), but if it's convenient you'll make your stomach a lot happier!!