After working in the hectic financial world in the City for 30 years, Kimiko was struggling to fit into the retirement lifestyle. On her friend’s recommendation, she joined a botanical class taught by Mayumi Hashi.  Then she took SBADLDC and didn’t get the top Award, but was given The Jantien Burggaaf Memorial Award.  She was accepted as a member of CPGFS and her first picture submitted to the Society was nominated to be 'Picture of the Year' for their 20th Anniversary.