He bought his ticket separately (he wasn't originally supposed to come with me on the trip, but was able to get the middle seat next to the aisle I'd booked) and didn't have status, but I did. I declined the upgrade when they gave me one but they did it again, so I took it as an opportunity to make someone happy with a surprise upgrade.

That wasn't me, but I'm glad you were able to sit with your boys! I remember how hard it was traveling with my son when he was little -- I can't imagine having to fly with two. How lovely that someone was willing to help. 💖

I've swapped twice: once after being asked to give up an aisle for a middle so a dad could sit with his little boy, and once asking someone else if I could give up a first class seat for coach so I could sit with my husband. I'm well aware how people feel about being asked to switch, so I made sure to begin the request with "would you like to take my first class seat so that..." and she was standing up collecting her things before I could finish my sentence. I'd never ask to switch for something better.