I got an answer.
I emailed TE regarding the measurement problems I was having. They were very nice and responded very quickly.
I was told that the measurements are done on a medium size pair of shorts. And they are measured from the center seam, unstretched. She also told me if you purchase a short that is larger than a medium, chances are, because it is a larger size it will be 1 to 2 inches longer than the posted measurement.
So the mystery is solved. Thanks for everyone's help.
Karen
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a woman in possession of a bicycle, must be in want of another one.
My current love is a Kuota Kebel. Maybe I need a Kuota Kalibur so I can be more aerodynamic...
My poor husband....