Thanks, psych - - so basically, if can manage just two carriers (neither Cx) - then I could use the chart as if I'm going around the world - all the same rules - but in reality - just leaving home - through jfk - through some euro layover - and onto the final destination - and back.

Right?

Since I've already booked the award portion in the "usual" way - I think it's safe to guess that an award seat is available on that leg, at least - I just need to find one on the initial short leg.

Will I be able to re-arrange this without a penalty - or at least, without a HUGE penalty? Looks like the overall mileage cost will be the same, so I have the case I'm NOT spending on a ticket to cover any "penalty) - but the over itinerary would be much easier to manage.