Hi! My apologies, but I have been unable to find the answer I'm looking for...

I have enough miles for a trip from EWR to LAX & want to go in October. I'm confused by the Continental calender on their site. If I took the 'standard economy' option, would I have to both leave & return on dates that are highlighted in yellow? Or would I be able to leave on a 'yellow' day & return anytime? Can I book reward travel through the Continental site?

Thanks in advance for your help!