thanks all ... I had tried delta.com, but seeing no availability, I thought it was a problem with finding partner flights ... after calling, I realized that it was an availability issue.

so, piggybacking off of apoivre I found an earlier return date using delta.com .....

now, does anyone know if they can book the itin even though we are 500 and 1000 miles short ? I have pending 2500 miles from LiveSearch, but it doesn't look hopeful for Friday's expiration on the award ticket hold. I'd hate to buy 2000 miles for each account ...... thanks in advance from this delta newbie