Needless to say, with the mortgage and not scaling back enough the budget has been tight. Today I called the trash company to understand why our bill had gone up. After a long wait, the conversation went like this - A: Yes, I had a question about my bill. I noticed that it went up, is this because of the cost of living adjustment noted below? Trash Representative (TR): Yes, that is correct. A: But the increase was 10%; much higher than the CPI and I'm sure inflation hasn't been that much. TR: Well, it also includes the increasing costs of landfills and rising gas prices. A: I see. Well is there a different package that we can downgrade to? TR: You already have the smallest package. One trash bin and the two green bins and recycling are free. A: I see. Well, do you have a smaller bin we can use or maybe you just come every other week, I mean we really don't have that much trash for you anyway. TR: Alice, I really don't know what to say, this is the smallest package I have for you. A: Oh ok, so I guess I have no other option then? TR: That is correct. A: So when should I expect to see another increase? TR: Not sure, maybe in two years but don't quote me on it. A: Ok, thank you anyway. Fooey, I couldn't negotiate my way in this case. I guess my hands are tied. | 
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