For years we've done without cable TV during the winter because Dish Network had told us they didn't have a snowbird plan where we could shut off service in one state and use it in another. Mind you, we paid year-round, so we certainly didn't get our money's worth.

We were able to get 3 or 4 local channels but not all the major networks using antennas attached to the TVs, and catch up on missed shows online. But I couldn't record shows and skip the commercials like I could at my other home.

Finally, I worked it out with Dish that we can be classified as snowbirds, so this meant bringing the DVR box to Las Vegas with me, and they sent a technician (no charge) to hook up a satellite dish. The house already had the wires put in, so it wasn't much of a job. Between you and me, I think Mr. YouKnow could have hooked up this old dish we got out of someone's trash in 2005. But maybe not.

So at long last, I have cable TV year-round, and all I have to do is load up my dish box every time I change states.