Over the hedge

Our family of four was at the train station in Frankfurt. Since we didn't have enough change to buy our tickets from the automated machines, I ran into a bakery to purchase a few pastries and get change. I pointed to four different items and said, "One of these, and one of these, etc." They handed me a large bag and my change. I was puzzled when I peeked into the bag because I saw two of everything. My husband laughingly accused me of not being able to resist temptation. Later a German friend explained that when I pointed and used my index finger, I was telling them I wanted two of each. If I wanted only one, I should have held up my thumb!

Elaine Dent

Manitou Springs, Colo.

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