Thank you everyone!
The key mentioned is getting those 6,000 needed-MQD's without actually spending $6,000.
The second AMEX card is the best one. I already have the reserve card but can get 2,500 MQD's by getting the Delta Platinum Amex card and that only costs $350.
A relative bargain.
If I get that card this year, I do get the MQD's this year too, right?
And I've started looking at various cities to see how much one D1/F trip would cost.
Thank you again, this looks like fun!