Ok, I have actually read the entire thread before posting and have to admit that both sides make some compelling arguments. But, something has to be said for actually doing some of your own work. How many times have there been threads started with "What should I do with my xxx miles?". Really, if you have to ask why did you get them in the first place? Give them to me, I have no problem thinking of dozens of ways to spend them. The blogs sometimes attract people that jump into what they are told is a good deal without really understanding the value of what they have bought. They then come to FT and ask what they should do with their booty. Many people are just shopping for a good deal, regardless of what that deal may entail. They remind me of people who buy things on sale just because it is a good price, not because they actually need or want the item. Then they have to figure out what to do with the item (usually becomes some white elephant xmas or birthday gift to someone).

I too have extolled the virtues of FT to many friends who just want me to spoon feed them info and do the work for them. I even had one person who wouldn't even try to figure out how to get Priority Club points out of their coke rewards and wanted step by step instructions. I won't spoon feed anymore. I direct people toward the correct web site and tell them to read.

I know we were all noobs once. But, if someone wants something that is actually of value to them, I believe a little effort is not too much to ask.