The Commode

We were in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg) Russia.

I was buying various things along the way to bring home, fur hats for my boys, etc. But I have a very special cousin, so I wanted something very different for him, something he would treasure, and keep. This was our last stop, and we still hadn't found anything.

When we checked into our new hotel and walked into our room, I saw instantly what I wanted to take home. The commode!!! My cousin is a plumber, and this was unlike anything I had ever seen before. I don't speak a word of their language, and was it hard to find anyone that spoke English!! I went to the desk and asked, but I was met with stares and shrugs. I thought if they understood, but they didn't believe what I was asking them... "Where can I buy a commode like the one in my room???"

One young lady sent me to the office and showed me where to find it. There I was met with same stares and disbelief. Finally, I was told to come back tomorrow morning. There was a lady Who spoke English who would be there.

As I made my way back up to my room, I was met by our tour director.
"Betty, is it true what everyone in hotel is talking about??"
I said, "Depends on what they are saying??"
He said, "They told him some crazy American was trying to buy a toilet to take home with her... And since you craziest American I know I thought must be you."
"Yes, Tom. I am trying to get one like they are using here."
"Does Calvin know?"
"Yes."
"How in the world will you get it home??"
"Calvin said he would hold it on his lap."

Well, the next morning, I went back to the office. The lady finally handed me phone book and said, "Call plumber." Yeah---I could read every word!!! Then, she called one for me. Surprise, surprise. He spoke quite good English!!!! He told me the hotel had been contracted and built by Finnish contractor, and all supplies came over from Finland. Well, that dashed a very good idea.

I giggle when I remember their faces, and I am sure they are still talking (and laughing) about the crazy American!!!!!

Copyright (c) 2008 Betty Coy. All rights reserved.