No More Checks...No More Bills?

So I got to thinking this morning when I pulled out the check book to pay bills, and we only had one check left. What did I think exactly? Well, a few things:
1. Shit! I totally forgot to order checks when I said we needed to, like a month ago.
2. Who gets paid? I mean, we've only got ONE check, so I guess I really need to prioritize who gets it!
3. If I have no more checks, is that not the BEST excuse in the world NOT to pay bills?

I mean, let's say the power company calls. Or sends me some beautiful pink notice in the mail. Either way, I converse with them and just say, "look, I totally understand that we need to pay this bill, but the thing is, you guys don't have that lovely little space on the payment coupon for me to input my credit card information, and I'm out of checks!" I mean, what will they say back exactly? Oh wait, here it is: "That is truly unfortunate, Mrs. S. However, since you are using our services, you are required to pay for them each month. I realize that we practically live in the dark ages of technology over here at IPL, but I can happily transfer you to our phone payment courtesy line. There is just a $10 (or whatever the charge is) convenience fee for making a payment this way."

Okay, hold up just ONE minute. What is so "convenient" about IPL charging me extra to pay my bill?? That doesn't seem very convenient at all. Shouldn't it be called an INconvenience fee? I mean, its obviously inconvenient for me to pay it, and it is also apparently inconvenient for them to take a payment via phone, or heaven forbid they move out of the dark ages and offer online payments! Come on, utility companies!

So yes, the war for the last check has begun. Almost everyone has some form of alternative payment system, everyone but my vehicle finance company and IPL. So maybe everyone could cross their fingers that the checks I finally ordered this morning come in before my next car payment is due? Thanks, I'd appreciate it...and I'm pretty sure the finance company would as well. I wouldn't want them to be inconvenienced by my lack of checks.

Til next time...