MYNIPPON:  We are very pleased and excited to have you as part of our team.  Almost all of our members and visitors would appreciate having someone as pretty as you featured in our stories and articles.  How do you feel about being on MYNIPPON?

Miki:  It is a great feeling to be featured on MYNIPPON. It good to know that I have people as well as fans who support what I do. I feel that it is a honor to featured on a website that celebrates the beauty of my heritage.

MYNIPPON:  We realize that you are a second generation Japanese.  What kind of connection do you have with Japan?  Do you visit Japan from time to time?  Do you have friends and family in Japan?  Do you stay abreast with fashion and cultural trends there?

Miki:  My family lives in Japan. I was born in Southern California. So I am what you call the Second Generation in this country (or Nisei in Japanese).  The last time I got a chance to visit Japan, was when I when I was a little child. I have not been back to Japan recently; however, I am planning on making a trip in the near future. I try to keep up with my culture as much as I can. I always make Japanese food at home. My mother taught me everything I know about how to make traditional Japanese cuisine. I also continue to practice Shuji (Japanese Calligraphy) and Karate Do (Shito-Ryu).

MYNIPPON:  We are sure you are proud of your heritage.  What specific part of Japan are you truly proud of?  How would you like others to appreciate this part of Japanese culture?

Miki: The art forms of my culture are beautiful. They have influenced me in almost every aspect of my life. If people really want to see the Japanese culture they should attend the Obon festival or go see a Taiko drum concert.