JAPAN: Empress Michiko, turning 74, pleased with healthy grandchildren

. TOKYO (The Japan Times - Kyodo News), October 20, 2008 Empress Michiko, ahead of her 74th birthday Monday, expressed her happiness for the healthy growth of her four grandchildren, noting the elementary school debut last spring of Princess Aiko, the 6-year-old daughter of Crown Prince Naruhito and his wife, Crown Princess Masako. "It was Aiko's turn to start school this year, making this a happy year indeed," the Empress said in a written reply to questions by the Imperial Household Agency press corps. "I sometimes think that perhaps the way we perceive and what we find amusing may be quite similar," the Empress said of the young princess. "On hearing certain expressions or sounds of words from those around us that I think she may find funny, I glance at her and I have caught her looking at me with laughter in her eyes," she said. "Moments like this make me feel very happy." Recalling the several days she spent with her 2-year-old grandson, Prince Hisahito, in the Hayama imperial villas in September, the Empress said he "is also growing up in sound health." Hisahito is the son of the Empress' second son, Prince Akishino, and his wife, Princess Kiko. The Empress expressed concern about Emperor Akihito's health. He was diagnosed with increased risk of developing osteoporosis and has been under hormonal treatment since undergoing surgery for prostate cancer in 2003. The Empress that she joins the Emperor in early morning walks and other exercise, which doctors say is helpful in fighting the side effects of the hormonal treatment. (C) The Japan Times Seniors World Chronicle adds: A recent Portrait of Her Majesty the Empress(Photo:Imperial Household Agency) Empress Michiko answered questions by the Press on the occasion of her 74th Birthday 2008 Click to read the official transcript of the questions and answers from the Imperial Household Agency