I'm at the point where TOD = paid upgrade. I have no delusion they are cheap upgrades. In 2013 my UG rate is decimated compared to prior years. Something has changed. That is impacting my loyalty. I would fly on W fares to Europe to maintain 1K. This year there's no chance I'll do that with my current upgrade percentage. If I end up a Gold riding on my MM status so be it. I will give another airline a chance to impress me in 2H 2013. The money I spent in prior years gave me assurance of most upgrades. Maybe that was payment on account in lieu of TOD per ticket. But now that F Meals are McMuffins and "beef" wraps why bother. If I can't get a more comfy seat I have nothing to be loyal for. I can get E+ as a Gold. And this is after 13 years as a 1K. Sucks.