Thanks! Lived in Vancouver for 25 years- I agree. I have now lived in Seattle for the past 12 years...unfortunately SEA redemptions have been very difficult outside of T,W departures.

Since the change fee/person is just shy of the amount of a ET ticket LHR-CDG, it sound like a paid ticket may very well be the way to go. I think I can manage the difference for a 1 hour flight provided the baggage allowance works out.