In a short staffed category with 12 day trips. Had 3 or 4 shadow days at the start of the month. Bid a 12 day trip going out after the shadow days. Could have bid and held several 12 day trips touching the shadow days and had the entire trip dropped and paid for. Would have easily received a 12 day or a couple of 6 day greenslips. Worked 12 days got 75 hours pay. Could have worked 12 days for 225 hours pay.