Rei Watanabe
Writer

GOODBeing blessed with encounters. This year, in particular, I met many people and had the chance to listen to their thoughts. Through these interactions, I had my own reflections, and experienced moments that touched my heart, as well as things I couldn't quite accept. Yet, what I believe is that despite everything, we are all alive.

BADBeing bound by gender roles. The role of a woman in the 'home' seems to be something that, whether we like it or not, becomes ingrained over time. Some might say, 'Even in the 21st century…,' but I believe that the role of 'woman,' passed down through generations in each household, is, at least for me, more deeply ingrained than the concept of 'equality.' As I age, I struggle with the negative inheritance from my 'home' and the role of 'woman.' I love my work, but as a 'woman' of the 'home,' I feel a growing guilt for leaving my hometown and neglecting my family. Still, I want to live.


Series | BEAUTY CALENDAR Latest Beauty Tips
Series | Hall of Fame Cosmetics

Koichi Futamata
CASE REAL Principal / Spatial Designer

GOODMy daughter, born last year, has been growing well and developing human-like communication with us, making me truly feel like a father. This has been a great joy this year.

BADMy work was extremely busy, and I had too little time to spend with my daughter...


Series | Conversation with Design

Masaharu Nabata
Freelance Writer

GOODI managed to acquire several pairs of American military sunglasses from World War II that I've wanted for a long time. What's more, I was able to collect models from most of the prominent manufacturers. To the uninitiated, they might all look like similar teardrop-shaped sunglasses, but to a true enthusiast, this is a truly precious collection. And the amazing part is, they're actually usable! (Or so I like to think.)

BADThe pages I was responsible for in a watch magazine expanded to an abnormal degree, forcing me into a state of confinement at home for an extended period, where I had to continuously write manuscripts. Well, when I get into the flow, the writing comes easily, and there's a certain thrill to it, but being unable to go out was quite tough. Next year, I hope they'll reduce my assigned pages a bit so I can write about different genres...


Series | Watch your Watch! A Watch Enthusiast's Notes / 2007 Swiss Watch Report
Watch Feature Article

Kane Yoshi Kondo
L&KONDO Designer

GOODI launched the new brand 'L&KONDO É FATTA.' We released it after careful preparation, and the response exceeded our expectations. I look forward to the day when it's loved by many and can be seen all over town.

BADI was shocked when my beloved dog, Tanpopo (a Kai Ken), shed her fur! Although I was incredibly busy this year, Tanpopo's presence healed me every day and allowed me to work with energy. I'm grateful to Tanpopo for giving me strength by bearing her own power. Thank you.


Suzuki Express 'The Red That Suits a Super Seven'
rumors 'L&KONDO'

Misa Harada
Hat Designer

GOODThis year, for the first time, I established a policy of not working on weekends. Although I, as a company president, tend to blur the lines between work and private life, I made an effort to rest. Or rather, I enjoyed myself to the fullest. I made a strong comeback to Rock Fest after 20 years, went to the beach. It was incredibly liberating!

BADIn my 21st year of living abroad, I was the victim of theft in a hotel for the first time while on a business trip! My phone, laptop, credit cards, passport – suddenly left with nothing abroad, I was made to keenly realize how much I had become accustomed to my daily life. Because of this, I am currently dealing with ID fraud. How terrifying! This modern age.


FASHION CALENDAR 'Y's Red Label, this collaboration is with Misa Harada's hats'