Luckily I have the Preferred, so I do get to transfer points to miles. Whew!

I guess the temptation of cash back is that it's cold hard money to plump up my account for needs like groceries vs. working toward a vacation I technically don't HAVE to take. it sounds like the practical choice, albeit the less fun one. But even though I don't have concrete travel plans, the idea of working toward a cool hotel or flight is incredibly appealing. I guess it's a matter of funding everyday life vs. aspirational benefits? (Sorry, I work in marketing, I can't help but analyze my own consumer behaviors!).

While I'm at it, are there other points cards I should be looking at besides the Chase and the SPG AmEx? I've heard some chatter about a Capital One Mile One card (or something like that).

This is getting me excited about playing with points!