In Texas we have the option of choosing our electricity provider. A year ago, we decided to leave the company that had served us for a decade because their price would have cost us an additional $50 per month on average. Unfortunately, the two-year agreement we signed came as oil skyrocketed to $147 per barrel. Thus, the charges this June and July were our highest ever…and with another year remaining on the contract, it appeared we'd continue to reach deep into our wallets. Then a funny thing happened. With oil currently hovering around $70, our current provider - TXU - announced it would give a new rate to anyone who signed during the height of oil speculation. All it took was one brief phone call and – Voila! – our utility bills going forward will be reduced 15 percent. While that's still higher than current market offerings, when you consider the company was under no obligation to do anything, I view their gesture as an example of excellent customer care. You can be sure we'll remember that when the contract is up.