Verizon Sucks
So this summer I chronicled my never ending battle with National City. Well it was more of a complaining post... read for yourself: Post. I am still with them, mostly because I don't have the time or money right now to start a new account. Their response was not what I had wanted, I hate them, they suck.

So it is Verizon's turn... they have been pissing me off since this summer when I was in Oregon. Well in Oregon as many of you might recall I barely used my phone. It barely worked when I was out there, so I never used it. I called in to get my plan switched to a lower minute plan, and they could not because I was a month late on my payment. So... I paid the bill, and then called back. However, when I called back, their computer was down and they could not change it. Because I was out of state, the little mall shops could not switch it for me. So... no rate change for me.

Then I broke my phone. When I call to get a new one (cause I have been paying for phone insurance) they tell me that there is a $50 deductible on the coverage. What! I mean a new phone costs 50 bucks, why would I pay 50 buck to get the same phone I have, when for 50 bucks I can get a cooler new phone? I could not use it toward a phone upgrade either... so I canceled the insurance, and hoped my phone would hold together for a while.

The phone lasted until I got to Michigan. I was hoping it would last until I had the money to get the new PalmOne Treo, but instead I switched the service onto my dads old phone. When I went in to get my phone service onto my dads old phone I once again tried to switch the rate plan. The lady told me, that since it was in the middle of a billing cycle, I should not switch my rate now. I need to wait until the beginning of my billing cycle... What? I just want it switched! I left in a huff, mumbling under my breath how much I hate Verizon as I walked by potential costumers in the store.

So now... I called this morning. Guess what for? To get my rate plan switched... and to complain about all my dropped calls in Albion. About the dropped calls... guess what? They blame it on me not updating the software on my phone (which I just tried to do... and it did not work! I tried twice). Switching my rate plan... if I want to switch my rate plan I need to sign a new contract! What crap is that!

I should be able to switch my plan, I am off contract with them. How can they make me sign a new contract in order for me to switch to a lower rate. This is garbage, plain and simple. I told her (Denise, the kind lady on the phone) that I wanted to leave Verizon because of this type of service. Why would I want to lock myself into a new contract just to be able to control MY phone plan? I do remember a year ago... when I increased my phone plan to the higher minute plan... they did not make me extend my contract... so why do I have to in order to reduce it? Things that make you go hum...

Denise, I am not mad at you. You seem like a nice lady, I understand it is not your fault you work for a worthless cellular giant that cares little to none about its costumers. So Verizon, enjoy these last last couples months of service from me... cause a little costumer service might have gotten me to stay. I like the deal T Mobil has on the Treo anyways...

So Verizon... "Can you hear me now?" You Suck.

Gone Fishing

Novali fishing in Kids N Stuff in Albion

With her little plastic fish. "I did it, I did it!" she screemed.

Well Novalí's visit is over. We had lunch today and they took off, back to Chicago. We had a blast. She loved her pink room, we watched movies, drew with chalk, and tons of other fun things. Not to mention showing her and Tamara my office and campus, Novali showed me how I need to leave my desk when I leave my office (always the organizer).

As always, I will put my photo-journalism skills to the test.

Playing the piano in the Kellogg Center, where I work.

Playing with her gifts, she can't come to Michigan without getting something. This is a little drum from my Primo Oscar.

Climbing the wrong way up the slide...

The playground here at Victory Park is huge and entertained her all afternoon.

Tuesday we went to Kids N Stuff. Tons of games and toys, she loved the fossil finding activity the most.

She also loved the little river. Fishing, fish races, and a little waterfall.

There was a truck in the middle, anytime she wanted to go to a new play area she told us she had to go in the truck.

She made us a meal in the kitchen. Mami got pizza and brocoli, papi got an egg and some bread. Cafe con Leche for everyone.

They had a little stage and costumes, she refused to sing into the mic, but she wore the band hat.

They had a fake shopping area, Novali bought cookies, yogurt, and granola.

Each day we wore each other out. I had to work in the mornings and at night we played and played. Watched Shrek, drew pictures, used her coloring book, and cooked.

Her last night was pumpkin carving. It was my parents's idea, my dad bought me one while they were here this weekend. So last night Novali carved her first Jack-O-Lantern. We even baked the seeds afterwards, not as good as mom used to make, but not bad for a first timer.

With her pumpkin... ready to carve.

She refused to get dirty for a while... but she broke down and reached inside.

Posing with her Calabaza (pumpkin) and of course... Nono.

I let it burn for a little while and we went inside.

Now it is back to the grind. I took Monday and Tuesday afternoons off of work, so I got some catching up with work stuff. At work we just got out holiday break schedule, I will get a full week and a day off for Christmas. Now I have to make plans!

Anyhow, back to work. I miss Novali already... it was nice to come from work and have her be there excited and hugging me. Helps with the daily stress and not taking work home.

Catching up
This weekend was about catching up. It started with a trip to see Orlando. Not the city, my chapter Brother from WMU, Orlando (who actually lives in Orlando). He was in Grand Rapids visiting his family and of course we had to go and see him. The night started with a trip to Kalamazoo where the WMU guys were meeting and hanging out at Vic's place. Vic got a nice little apartment on Cedar, one block from the B-B-Q Pit! Sweet! We waited for Rudy to pick us up, he was late, and had his cell off... so of course Vic and I kept calling him and leaving him messages. I think we hit about 20 messages... "Rudy have you checked your messages yet?" - We asked him that all night long.

Orlando (far right) and his brother Chris (Beta at GVSU) and his parents who rock.

EXODUS... the reunion tour. We had a lot of good times in Kzoo back in the day. Cedar Street, the smurf room, the scary third floor...

Orlando is a lucky guy, glad you are enjoying Florida Bro! (He transfered to UCF)

Lots of Brothers came out to see Brother "Martí".

We miss Orlando up here, he was a vital part of the chapter. I am glad he is loving Florida and having a good time. I know you are going places Bro! Keep up the good work.

Sunday was cool, my parents decided after all to come and visit. Good thing I got most of my painting done. I finished painting the living room a few minutes before they got there. I showed them campus, and we ate at Charlies. It was nice to sit and talk with them, we had a stressful family month and I am glad we took some time to chill. They also were very nice and got my curtains for my living room. Thanks!

Painting is done!

No more ugly paneling... anywhere!

So the house is nearly done. I need some more furniture in the living room and hang some paintings, then it will be done. I made a quick page on my website for my house with pictures and everything for everyone. You can see all the work I have done. Check it out. Mi Casa.

It was a catch up weekend. Caught up with Orlando, caught up with my parents, caught up on my painting, and caught up on some work. I am in my office right now getting a few things wrapped up so I can take some time off Monday and Tuesday since Novali will be here.