There are a few miscellaneous things I've been meaning to write about that never seem important enough to merit a column of their own. Here they are all bundled up together, for your reading pleasure.

Haircuts and massages

I have always found great pleasure in a good hair cut. There is something about the pampering, the attention being paid to me, and the redesigning of my look that entrances me. That and the head rubbing that takes place in the washing phase. I swear I'd give up sex for a good head rub.

In Indiana I had found a lovely woman who took care of me in ways I have always dreamed about. Well, if she was paradise, then China is some seventh level of heaven, for these stylist have ways not fit to talk about.

There is a little salon within walking distance of our apartment and it is the greatest of pleasure to go. When I arrive I am greeted by a bevy of beautiful women ready to do my bidding. With no Chinese skills to speak of I pantomime that I want both a head washing and a haircut and they get to work.

The shampooing takes place not in a bath, but at a regular chair. The girl dabs a little bit of shampoo on the top of my head then squirts in the tiniest amount of water – just enough to get a lather. She then works in a little more and a little more until my entire head is being cleaned.

Then the rubbing begins. They rub the scalp and the temples and the neck and the cheeks and it sends me into a relaxed coma. They take their time too. This is no rush job like you might get at Mastercuts, but a professional massage of the head.

Then we go over to a sink where I am rinsed and cleaned. It is back to the chair from there where they proceed to rub the shoulders, back and arms. Sometimes they get a little rough here, but usually it is another bout of heavenly relaxation.

After half an hour or so they finally send me to one of the men, who then proceeds to cut the hair. I'm not sure why the ladies are in charge of cleaning and massaging while the men handle the scissors, but it works out well for me and my hair.