Emily, your timing is perfect for me to share my whining story.

We've hired Waste Management for more than 10 years. Recently, our cans disappeared. Our first thought was, "Who would steal our garbage cans?" and then, "Could bears have dragged them into the woods." And then, a slow realization, "I don't recall paying that bill in awhile."

Turns out, I had overlooked it, lost it, whatever, and their response was to take away the cans. I called to find out what I owe them ($60, by the way) and to ask how I can restart service. They told me it will cost a $30 can delivery fee, and a $30 restart-after-cancellation fee. I laughed and said I'd call around to other providers and consider my options.

Just today, my Nordic Waste cans were delivered. I look forward to paying them now instead. The rates are basically the same all around, they have the no-sort recycling, and I see they'll take plastics #1-7 instead of just #1-2.

I now call the Waste Management customer service line the "customer shaming line" because seriously, I just forgot and I am sorry. Yikes.