To try for the status, and "bank" some miles, I've been buying a few electronic gift cards at a few places in the program.

I'm also frustrated by how fast restaurants in my area (LA) come and go in the program, buying a gift card gives me a little "insurance" against restaurants either leaving the program or stupid rules like needing a reservation or specific day rewards.

But the reality is that I'll likely stop my habit of consulting iDine/Rwards Network before dinging come the changes this summer. Too bad, it was good while it lasted.