[QUOTE=RobbieRunner;17905288]Now, as a business owner whom watches expenses very carefully, I am constantly reminded of a quote I read by Wolfgang Puck many years ago. He said, "You have to operate very lean, no matter what the current status of your business, or you will be out of business very quickly." I've lived by that credo for quite some time now. That's my style. I don't ever pay for FIRST or BUSINESS any longer. I stopped that practice about 10 years ago. Before then, I flew First and Business ALL the time. Now, I chose to put my money elsewhere. Also, I fly Southwest a bit, and don't have to worry about such upgrades. Along these lines I am always reminded of a peripheral acquaintance whom is extremely wealthy. He could literally buy and airline if he wished. He always flies Southwest in the states. He said to me when I asked him why "Southwest", that he flies them because, "They are FUN to fly and they take me where I want to go quickly and inexpensively. Why not?"

If you and your friend are flying Southwest, you are harldy spending your money wisely or operating lean. They can be more expensive than the proper airlines these days.