I haven’t mentioned that O2 sent me an on-line bill for my service on 27th February. By mid-morning the problem continued, so I decided to tackle the issue in a manner that might stir them into action. I engaged in an on-line chat with the billing department. Although I kept my voice down, I did lapse into Upper Case at appropriate times. Somehow it seems more polite to shout in typing. Capitals were employed, for example, when, for the umpteenth time I was required to go through the security questions, beginning with ‘Are you the account holder’?
Possibly in order to refute my statement that this adviser would be no more able to beat the system than any other, a miracle was suddenly wrought. Just before noon I was back on my correct number. Or maybe it was brought about when I demanded that the bill was rubbed out and a new one, reflecting compensation, be presented. This resulted in a promise of a £10 credit on my next bill. We will see. On the other hand, I have to admit that it was probably no more than coincidence. Health warning: the internet transforms a somewhat naive gentleman into a hardened cynic.
I you need me to reinsert your own lost number you can at least now phone me.
This afternoon I set my mind to working on information and illustrations for the First Gallery exhibition flyer, and e-mailing the results to Paul.
Our friend had the excellent idea that a Black & White ‘before’ picture should be accompanied by an ‘after’ one in colour.
The Head Gardener and I have provided pen pictures of each other,
and I have offered this photograph of us during the time we were tending Elizabeth’s garden. Niece Danni made the picture on 6th May 2013.
Finally, this picture of the house taken by the Estate Agent three or four years ago will hopefully fit the bill.
This evening we dined on Jackie’s savoury rice, Lidl’s pork ribs in barbecue sauce, and Tesco’s yellow ticket spring rolls. We have the daft system of sell-by dates in the UK. Anything unsold nearer the date is usually reduced to get rid of it. Tesco’s such offerings always have a yellow ticket stuck on them. Tess’s Village Shop, however, gives it away to family and friends. We therefore returned yesterday with a box of goodies.
After that little diversion, I can tell you that Jackie drank sparkling water and I drank more of the chianti opened four days ago. It was perfectly potable.
“Somehow it seems more polite to shout in typing.” Ha ha! What a great picture of the two of you, Derrick!
Thanks, Jill. We hope the gallery will use it
Lovely pictures as usual. I particularly love the house. It would probably look even more gorgeous with some wistaria hanging around windows and doors. I like how you started with a beautiful black and white to then continue gradually into colours. The opening lines on the O2 incident cracked me up 🙂
Many thanks, Geetha. There is now a wisteria on the framework to the right.
Wonderful and most welcome. Perfect choice 😀
The phone saga appears to be coming to an end. It’s always disappointing when a saga reaches its conclusion – sort of like finishing reading “Lord of the Rings” and wishing for more. I do hope the carnage continues.
I chuckle uncontrollably, Bruce
I hate to admit it (no, I actually like admitting it), I had exactly the same thoughts, Bruce Almighty.
We can only live in hope that disaster strikes again.
It will. I promise you, it will
Jackie thinks ‘you are a rotten lot’ – she has ‘to live with it, for crying out loud’
You do wonder what Derrick will write about without this constant source of material. The best comic writers turn their adversities to profitable use. D just gives his away!!
Many thanks, Paul
Love that picture of you and Jackie!! And that contrast between the B&W/Color pictures certainly makes a point.
Thanks a lot, GP
Great array of photos today Derrick – of course that shot of you and the Head Gardener is my favourite. So glad to hear the debacle is reaching a conclusion – good luck with the ‘compensation’. 🙂
Many thanks, Pauline
What a beautiful picture of the two of you! I always love your pics!
Many thanks, Sofia. A good capture by Danni
The internet has turned this hardened cynic into a grumpy old lady. The discount does not match the aggravation.
Wish I could be there for the exhibition. It will be a sensational success.
Great photo of D&J.
Many thanks, Mary. Of course the discount is just a sop. But there’s only so much energy worth spending on rubbish
What a beautiful pictures…lovely post as always. …
Many thanks, Chitra
A lovely picture of you and your wife!
Many thanks, John
Lovely photo of you and Jackie. Is that water you’re drinking, or a fabulous tin and tonic?
of course I meant gin and tonic
Actually, it was wabulous tin and gonic. Thanks, Cynthia J
Ah! Nothing beats a good tabulous win.
Good man, Bruce
Well, you may have won the battle…(I commenced a new one of my own this morning over a very startling ambulance bill from last June. Dreadful story, so I’ll skip it.) Love the photos you are gathering; “before and after” shots always are effective as you demonstrated. A fine picture of the happy couple!
Thank you, Cynthia G. I hope you win your battle
Before and after shots are always astounding in how much change we ‘oomins can accomplish if we’ve a mind to.
Thanks, Widdershins. We can hardly believe it ourselves
Ah, I like seeing your silliness in the photo of you and Jackie! Lovely home 🙂
Thanks, Rose
Hey, Derrick! Glad you solved the problem with your phone number.
I like your sweater’s colours and I love to see you and Jackie so happy 🙂
Cheers!
Thanks, Monica. I was still playing rugby in that sweater when I was 45. We were first married 48 years ago today. 🙂
Wow! That’s a wonderful news, Derrick. Happy Marriage Day! I kiss, you and Jackie, and I wish to both of you to be happy and healthy many years from now.
And now… up with the glass and cheers!
Have a beautiful party, Derrick, along with your loved ones!
Happy Marriage Day!
Cheers, Monica
Aw the happy couple!
Lovely house, cool couple!
Thanks, Claire Marie
Enjoyed your colorful pictures Derrick, glad your problem was resolved, albeit it took some time, at least you may get the credit of ten pounds back.
Kind regards and best wishes.
Cheers.
Thanks, Ian. I may
The O2 saga! How annoying when the phone company lets you down. Sometimes ‘shouting’ works. 🙂
Thanks Timi. 🙂