I am new to FlyerTalk Miles, but I retired in 2001 (age 43). My wife and I lived in Hawaii for three years, We haven't had any problems procuring FF seats with Delta traveling to our our house in Virginia. Since coming to ILL, we have traveled to Texas, and other places. We are traveling to Hawaii in July 02 using FF miles, we requested the FF tickets in April 02 and were immediately told seats were available. I am Delta Gold and my wife is Delta Silver. Life is good.