I too am interested in learning the ropes from my esteemed bretheren and sisteren as I am new to the quest for miles. I assure you that I am putting in the effort. I'm driving all over town buying up all the NutriGrain Bars I can get my hands on and I am joining every mileage/point program I can find. Any words of wisdom are welcome. I think I have set-up my profile appropriately to receive e-mail responses.

I would also like to contribute a tip.Since I am new and I don't quite know where this should go so I'll put it here to get started.

Costco wherehouse stores do not accept Visa or M/C. Costco.com does, and they sell gift certificates that are redeemable at the stores. A $100 gift certificate costs $103.40 (yes a 3.4% ding)and includes shipping and insurance. So, use your mileage card to purchase the GC online then go shopping at the store.

Thanks.

Airspike