"All words are symbols that represent unspeakable realities. Which is also why words are magical." (Donald Miller tweet)

Monday, June 06, 2011

we're getting there

US phone plan is in place on Spike's phone.

We got it from a little store on a nondescript corner in Niagara Falls, NY. They also sell clothing. And they speak gangsta.

Yesterday, when we made our second trip there (because we needed an all-important zip code, which Canadians do not have, to activate the plan online), a scribbled sign on the door said, "Back in 30 minutes." We waited on the sidewalk for 45 minutes, at which point someone walked by, laughed, and said, "That sign was on the door over an hour ago."

We looked at each other. "He's not coming back, is he?" Since Spike was leaving in 8 hours for the week again, and this was apparently the only location that was open on Sundays, it really was a problem. Got back in the car, and sent a few texts to a friend, asking him to look online for other locations ... maybe, just maybe, we could find another little store on a nondescript corner somewhere.

Worked on that for almost half an hour. Entered one possible location (they weren't answering their phone, so it was a long shot) into the GPS, and pulled away from the curb. Did a shoulder check - and saw the door on the store was open! "He's back!!!!"

U-turn.

Rushed in.

Got connected.

Aaahhhhh. American side of the border is solved. $60 for unlimited everything whenever Spike is in the US. (That's right - nationwide calling, unlimited incoming calls, continent-wide-texts and unlimited data - $60. Golly.)

Now back to Bell to solve the Canadian side, which will not be nearly so wonderful. (wincing with anticipatory pain) I plan to begin with the line all of you have recommended ... "I'm considering changing to another carrier ... perhaps you have a Customer Loyalty department you'd like to transfer me to?"

Wish me luck.