Well our phone has been out of order since yesterday morning. Renee immediately figured I didn't pay the bill, but I did. So I called SBC and they promised a technician would come within 4-6 hours.

While I was surprised and impressed that a tech came out, after "fixing" the problem, I still wasn't able to get a dial tone. However, my DSL started working again.

I called SBC, again. This time the customer service rep (CSR) requested I go downstairs - to the main box - and check if there is a dial tone (I had to bring a phone with me to hook up). I did, and there wasn't.

The next CSR I spoke to told me that they would send another tech out the next day. I asked him why the first tech closed the original ticket, if it was still not working. I was informed that the tech felt the problem was the wiring inside and therefore required a different tech (an "indoor" tech) to complete the job.

When I asked what kind of tech was coming the next day,I was stunned when he said "an outside tech"! What the hell is that!? After arguing with him, I lost my case. The rep told me that they know exactly what the problem is and it would be repaired tomorrow.

Guess what. The tech came by and fixed the problem. In fact, he fixed it so well, that not only did I still not have a dial tone, but I lost my DSL connection as well!

Aaaaarrrgggghhhhh.

So, I called them (from my cell phone) and told them it still didn't work. They told me the rep was there and he fixed the problem. I informed them that indeed, he did not. Then, she hit me with an unbelievable question:

"Do you want a tech to come back out?"

For those of you who have watched "Blue Collar TV", you'll recognize this as a "here's your sign" moment.

Well, now I have my DSL connection back and I have been assured that my service will be back by 4pm, today.

Stay tuned...