Guide to Hobbit Courting

One does not simply comb the hair on a hobbit's feet

Now, this is a very special hobbit tradition and you should never take it lightly!

When your suitor asks you to do this then you must understand that it is a big deal. It is only supposed to happen behind closed doors. And by couples who wish to marry only!

Hobbits care a lot about gardening, cooking and respectability. But there is something they are even more proud of. 

And that is their foot hair. 

They groom it at least four times a week. Neatly combed foot hair with a nice scent is definitely a must among hobbits.

Their foot hair can tell you to which family they belong, how old they are and how respectable they are. It can tell you even more then their garden or their pantry. And that says something.

Normally it is only something that you ask your parents to do. Never your children, other family members or even close friends. Or you should do it on your own, of course.

And one doesn't simply comb the hair on a hobbit's feet.

No, no sirry.

There is a special comb you have to use. The personal comb of the owner, that is.

You have to comb downwards, starting at the ankles of said hobbit. You need to be caring and loving in your actions. The hair will know if you don't truly mean to comb it neatly. 

It will only work against you and make a mess of itself. 

There is another important detail that I should mention... It doesn't matter how your work turns out, the hobbit has to go outside after you have groomed his hair. And your suitor needs to take a walk around town.

Now, it needs to be daylight and your suitor needs to run into at least five neighbours and one close friend. If that doesn't happen it won't count. In that case your suitor needs to go up to people's houses and show them your work.

It doesn't officially matter if you succeed in making your suitor happy about your work. But you can imagine that, after I told you how important their foot hair is to them, that it can cost you a relationship.

You are even allowed to braid the hair on the feet of your hobbit. 

Just remember that everyone in town will see your hobbit's feet. So please be mindful about this part of hobbit courting!