Any month-to-month internet plans?

Thank you very much grymwulf, definitely an option to consider.

I think seasonal loads a new config file on the modem, stopping service. It allows you to check the email account from some other internet connection, but it's whole point is to disable service at the address so you don't have to pay for it when you go away. 

Instead, I would suggest calling Cox and talking to their Sales department. There are lots of ways of ordering service without a contract. Contracts give you better prices and price locks, but AFAIK they aren't required.