What is more CHALLENGING in life?

I would say definitely to get to know yourself better than others do.

Today at 10:00 am all the finalists were tested on their interview skills at my home. I woke up very early to prepare breakfast for every one: coffee, fruits, yogurt and rice crackers. Also lunch for everybody, big mama ines today!

Then the MUJ team arrived, Takako Nakanishi, Yoshiko Kawazu and the finalists manager Asami Saito. Also Akiko Shimizu, who runs the John Robert Powers School in Tokyo. She teaches “interview-speech” to the finalists since a month already.

Most of the girls were quite nervous, everybody looked stunning.

The best at interview was Yu Sato, she is really “all together”, smart and sharp. She can express her thoughts very eloquently, and has a sense of big-picture in her life which is very attractive.

Also very strong were Maiko Kitagawa, Reiko Iida and Riyo Mori. They understand well the concept of Miss Universe and have already a strong goal in life. They are beautiful while talking and interesting to listen.

It is impossible at this stage to know who will be winning. Everyone is so strong, beautiful, smart, sharp, focused… the best year ever.

I asked all the finalists to vote who they think was best at interview and who they think will win. Everyone wrote on a piece of paper, folded it and gave it to me.

Most voted are:

Best at interview: Yu Sato

Potentiel Winner: Akiko Chubachi

The interviews were filmed by Chris Campbell and will be posted on the site very soon under BACKSTAGE. iN Japanese and some in English.

We finished the interview test at 4:00 pm, then Miyako started her walking class.

 Best walkers are Anna Sado and Akiko Chubachi. (Rei had left also cannot judge). But sincerely the girls rock this year. They will all look incredible on stage that’s for sure.

Sakura sweetheart, this is my message to you….. you did not show up today and did not dare calling me or Asami.      You forced me to take a sad decision, which is to remove you from the competition.       You are a lovely and beautiful girl but you are not taking this competition seriously, many warnings have been given to you, also it is a waste of time for everyone involved.      Unfortunately I don’t think you had the support from your family and friends like the other finalists, and it is difficult to fight alone, this competition is a team work.     I wish you good luck in your school studies.

We watched the 2004 Miss Universe Japan competition and the girls could not believe how much they will have to learn and rehearse when Milly arrives first week of March! ………Will be FUN!!!!

To all my Bond Girls: I love you all, and I am very proud of all of you. You went a long way. Each of you is unique and our little treasure.

And for last, congratulation to Anna and Yu Kizaki who moved in together in Tokyo last week!     Now you are ready for the action gorgeous!   Let me know if you need anything for your little new apartment……