Kamiokoppe Barber

Today we decided it was time once again for Ridge and Holt to have a haircut. This particular event has become much easier since our discovery of the barber in Kamiokoppe.

If you will remember, Kamiokoppe is a tiny gathering of houses about ten minutes south of Nishiokoppe. I teach the five Kamiokoppe elementary school students once a week. Last month, we decided to give this particular barber a shot after Holt admired our neighbor’s hair cut. Ryuugi is four years old and lives across the street. He is Kaori and Nana’s youngest brother and Holt really liked his haircut. So, after asking Mrs. Taniguchi where they take their boys, we followed suit and went to Kamiokoppe.

This visit was much easier than last month’s, when Aaron had to set the boys in his lap. As you can see, both of the kids sat independently and even chatted with the barber. Ridge looks angry in the photos, but he’s just being serious.

The barber first cut their hair with scissors and a comb. We didn’t tell him how to cut it; he just started (same as last time). Perhaps last month we did mention something about Ryuugi’s hair. I’m not sure. Anyway, after cutting their hair all over with his scissors, he then dusted them off and gots out the straight razor. He carefully lathered up their necks and sideburn area and shaved away. I was nervous the first time, but he’s very good with the razor and there have not been any problems. We like this barber immensely. He’s always cheerful and pleased to see us. He doesn’t seem at all intimidated by our lack of Japanese, and he doesn’t speak a bit of English. Apparently, Aaron was actually turned away from a barbershop in Nayoro once, as soon as they discovered he didn’t speak any Japanese. Fortunately, we don’t have that problem here! Looks like this will become a monthly event for us. Maybe next time only the boys can go. What an idea!

Ridge looking serious
Using the razor
Holt chatting