How Long is a Moment? Tea and Trivia at THD

This blog is inspired from our recent Tea and Trivia Activity💚 here at THD.  One of the 15 questions, we have to answer was:   

How Long Is a Moment? My Personal Reflections!

I have been thinking lately about the tiny slices of time that make up a life. At our recent Tea and Trivia activity one of the question asked was, “How long is a moment?” It sounds simple, almost like something a child might ask during a long car ride. But at my age—and after the many chapters of living I’ve already turned—questions like this carry a weight far beyond their grammar.

If you ask a medieval monk, a moment is exactly 90 seconds. They divided every hour into 40 little units of time, as if life could be portioned out like communion wafers. But in the world I actually inhabit, the world of grandkids and great-grandkids, of flights between coasts, of hospital corridors and political chatter, a moment is never 90 seconds. It is either far shorter or impossibly longer.

A moment is the quick glance of a five-month-old great-grandchild on Thanksgiving morning, dressed in something both adorable and slightly tacky. It lasts maybe half a second, but the memory lingers in me like a warm light on a winter afternoon.

A moment is also the pause before a doctor delivers news that will bend the path of your life. That moment feels like an entire season, stretched so thin you can hear it hum. I have lived through a few of those.

Sometimes a moment is the space between hearing a hurtful comment like being told once that I could never be “truly American” because my citizenship came through naturalization and the breath I take before deciding not to let the words root too deeply. That moment has lasted decades, woven through all the places I have called home and all the contributions I have made to this country that sometimes doubts me.

Moments are not counted by clocks. They are counted by impact and achievements.

The first time I reported for duty at the FDA in Rockville, MD in September, 1990. 
The early mornings after 9/11 when the world felt stunned and fragile.
The decision to keep writing, year after year, since 2009, letting my blog serve as a kind of time capsule for thoughts that arrive quietly but insist on being named.

These moments stretch far beyond their 90 medieval seconds. They are measured not in minutes, but in meaning.

So how long is a moment? Long enough to shape a life. Short enough to slip away if we don’t pay attention. And sometimes, long enough to stay with us even after we are gone.

💚Kudos to Elane Johnson, Newly Hired Activity Coordinator for excellent hosting of the Tea and Trivia Party last Sunday. 

Meanwhile, here are some of the others Questions at Our Trivia and Tea Activity last Sunday. For Answers look at the bottom of the Page: ( If you answers correctly 10 of the questions, I salute You, You are a genius and a walking encyclopedia. You should try out for the Jeopardy TV show).   

1. What Country Advertised itself as the Country of a Thousand Smiles?

2. What are the two Planets without a Moon?

3. What are the two States that do not have Daylight Saving Time?

4. What is the Biggest County  ( Area wise) in California? 

5. What are the the two name of Baby Owls?

6. How old is the Concord Pavilion in Concord, CA?     

7. Where is the Earth the thickest? 

8. Before it was called a mouse, what animal was the computer accessory named after?

9. How many languages are written from right to left?

10.  How many Earths could fit inside the sun?

My Photo of the Day

Answers: 1-Thailand, 2-Mercury and Venus, 3-Arizona and Hawaii, 4-San Bernardino, 5-Owlets or Nestlings, 6-50 years. 7-Around the Equator, 8-The Turtle, 9-12, 10-1.3 Million   

Finally the Top Global News (Nov 26, 2025)

• Venture Global inks 20-year LNG deal with Tokyo Gas — The U.S. LNG exporter signed a long-term supply agreement to deliver 1 million metric tons of liquefied natural gas annually to Tokyo Gas starting in 2030. Reuters+2Reuters+2

• Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Kyiv is ready to advance a U.S.-backed peace plan with Russia — Ukraine signaled willingness to move forward with a proposed peace deal, though sensitive points will require further negotiation with the U.S. and European allies. Reuters+2The Indian Express+2

• Emmanuel Macron announces EU plan to finance Ukraine using frozen Russian assets — France and other EU countries are working on a financial support package for Ukraine, leveraging seized Russian assets to back reconstruction and security guarantees. Reuters+1

• European Union (EU) pledges continued support for Ukraine with cash and weapons amid ongoing negotiations — The EU reaffirmed its commitment to helping Ukraine diplomatically, militarily, and economically even as diplomatic efforts intensify. Reuters+1

• Global markets rally as investors react to geopolitical developments and central-bank signals — Markets saw gains after dovish indicators from central banks and renewed hopes for stability amid major international tensions. Reuters+1

• Alibaba under pressure as China’s tech-commerce price wars overshadow AI gains — The Chinese tech giant’s aggressive spending on AI and cloud competes with losses in food-delivery and quick-commerce markets, raising investor concerns. Reuters

• Shell accused by Venture Global of harming its LNG business in a years-long campaign — Amid legal disputes, Venture Global claimed Shell initiated efforts to undermine its LNG operations — highlighting tensions in global energy markets. Reuters+1

• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) urges a binding agreement on nuclear safety for Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant if Ukraine-Russia deal proceeds — As peace talks advance, the UN nuclear watchdog warns that nuclear safety cooperation will be critical for any long-term settlement. The Guardian+1

• NATO jets scrambled after foreign drones cross into Romanian airspace — raising regional security tensions — Reports of unauthorized drone incursion near Ukraine’s border triggered a NATO response, underscoring fragility in European airspace security. The Guardian+1

• Major diplomatic meeting scheduled: Jean-Noel Barrot of France to meet Iran’s foreign minister over nuclear issues — Paris plans high-stakes talks on November 26 to press Iran to comply with obligations toward the IAEA and discuss broader regional concerns. Reuters+1

  

A Thanksgiving of Quiet Gratitude

Today is just two days before Thanksgiving Day. I find myself slowing down in ways I once resisted. Maybe it’s age, maybe it’s wisdom, or maybe it’s simply where life has brought me, but this year, gratitude feels less like something I “practice” and more like something I quietly notice. It rises in unexpected moments, soft and steady, shaping my days.

I’ve been blogging since 2009, and for all these years, writing has been my anchor. Even now, it gives me a place to lay down my thoughts, to make sense of the world, and to share a little of myself with whoever might be reading. My posts have always wandered from TV shows I rediscover, to the latest headlines, to scientific breakthroughs and memories from my FDA years but they’ve been part of a long conversation about what matters.

Looking back on my career with the FDA, especially the seasons of my life spent working on anti-malarial drug products and those difficult months after 9/11, I realize how deeply those experiences shaped me. I didn’t always appreciate it at the time. But now, with distance, I can see the enormous privilege of having spent my life doing work that protected others. It wasn’t glamorous, and it rarely earned applause, but it was meaningful. And for that, I am deeply grateful.

In this chapter of my life, living with the reality of a serious illness, gratitude has taken on a more tender tone. I’ve made choices about my care with a clear mind and an open heart, including declining dialysis. There is peace in that decision. A surprising peace, actually. It has reminded me that gratitude is not about pretending everything is fine; it is about recognizing what remains beautiful, even in difficult terrain.

I am grateful for the simple things: For the comfort of my weekly massages, which have become small sanctuaries of care. For mornings when my body cooperates and I can move through the world with ease. For familiar TV shows that wrap me in a sense of companionship. For the rhythm of writing, which gives shape to my days.

And I am grateful for connection, for the readers who pause to spend a few minutes with me with their comments;  for the quiet exchange that happens between writer and reader even when we never meet. My blog has been a companion through so many seasons of my life. It has allowed me to keep learning, to keep reflecting, to keep speaking in my own voice.

This Thanksgiving, I’m not thinking about big celebrations or grand gratitude lists. Instead, I’m noticing the smaller, honest things: The warmth of a weighted blanket. The comfort of a familiar routine. The memory of the work I once did. The presence of people who care. A surprise gift (Filipino Food) from a Kababayan and the gift of another day to notice any of it at all. The ability to enjoy good food, ethnic or otherwise. And finally, the connection from closed relatives specially on Holidays.  

As the Thanksgiving Day approach, my hope is simple: that gratitude finds you in the quiet places too. That it meets you gently, without expectation. And that whatever this season looks like for you, whether lively or peaceful, crowded or still, you’re able to find a moment that feels warm, grounding, and true. 

From my heart to yours, I wish you ALL, a Thanksgiving filled with meaning, reflection, and the kind of gratitude that doesn’t announce itself, but simply rests softly in the background, reminding us we’re still here.

Meanwhile, here are a few of my favorite quotes on Gratitude:  

• “Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” — William Arthur Ward 
• “If the only prayer you said was thank you, that would be enough.” — Meister Eckhart 
• “Be present in all things and thankful for all things.” — Maya Angelou 
“Thanks are the highest form of thought, and gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” — G.K. Chesterton 
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.” — Anonymous 

Finally, Here are five top news stories for November 25, 2025:

1. Pope Leo’s First Foreign Trip: Pope Leo (the first U.S.-born pope) is set to visit Turkey and Lebanon from Nov 27 to Dec 2 to deliver a message of peace and interfaith dialogue. Reuters

2. G20 Summit in South Africa Concludes: The G20 Johannesburg summit saw a 122-point declaration focused on global equity, debt relief, climate, and sustainable development — despite the U.S. largely boycotting the event. Le Monde.fr+1

3. COP30 Climate Summit Disrupted by Fire: A fire broke out at the COP30 climate conference venue in Belém, Brazil, prompting evacuation; smoke inhalation was reported for some participants. AP News+1

4. UN Chief Blames Climate Inaction: UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the world’s failure to meet the 1.5°C global warming target as a “moral failure,” urging stronger commitments at COP30. The Guardian

5. Australia Politics — Gambling Ad Reform & Domestic Violence Funding: In Australia, Senator David Pocock criticized PM Anthony Albanese for delaying a ban on gambling ads, even as the government announced a $41.8M boost to the national domestic violence helpline (1800 Respect). The Guardian

AI Prediction on Tonight NFL Football Game

NFL Schedule

Pacific Time

Carolina Panthers

Monday

5:15 PM

San Francisco 49ers

 Here’s a breakdown of some of the key storylines and a prediction for the 49ers vs. Panthers Monday Night Football game, plus a projected score.

---

Key Factors to Consider

1. 49ers Momentum & Health

   • Brock Purdy is healthy again, which is a big deal. Yahoo Sports notes that with him, Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Ricky Pearsall all back, San Francisco’s offense could really click. Yahoo Sports

   • The Niners need to lean into their identity: a strong run game plus timely passing. Yahoo Sports

   • However, there is some concern defensively. According to reports, the 49ers’ pass rush has struggled, particularly since losing Nick Bosa. Niners Nation

   • They might also be without kicker Eddy Piñeiro for this game, which could complicate special teams. San Francisco Chronicle

2. Panthers Are Young, Inconsistent, But Dangerous

   • The Panthers are on a bit of a rebound and have a young roster. Carolina Panthers

   • Their defense has talented pieces (e.g. Jaycee Horn, Derrick Brown), but consistency is a major issue. Yahoo Sports+1

   • On offense, they need to be efficient and take advantage of any slow starts from the 49ers.

   • According to some betting/oddsmaker sources, the 49ers are a 7-point favorite. SportsLine+2Knup Sports+2

   • BetMGM analysts also lean toward the over on the total points, projecting a more open game. BetMGM

3. Matchups to Watch

   • McCaffrey vs Panthers’ Front Seven: If McCaffrey breaks off big runs or gets involved in the passing game, San Francisco could control the game on early downs. 49ers Webzone

   • Purdy vs Carolina Secondary: Purdy’s timing will be tested, especially on those intermediate routes. Yahoo Sports

   • Panthers’ Offensive Discipline: If Carolina falls behind, they’ll need to protect the QB and limit errors to stay in this.

---

Prediction & Score Projection

• Pick: 49ers to win, likely covering the 7-point spread. Multiple analysts, including Knup Sports, favor San Francisco by 7. Knup Sports

• Total Points: Leaning toward Over ~47.5 points, based on BetMGM’s line. BetMGM

• Predicted Final Score: 49ers 30 – Panthers 20

---

Risks to the Prediction / Upset Scenarios

• If Carolina plays mistake-free football and can generate some splash plays, they could keep it close.

• Any injury or misstep on the 49ers’ part (especially at QB or on special teams) could swing momentum.

• If Purdy turns it over or the 49ers’ defense doesn’t get enough pressure, the Panthers could sneak back in.

---

Bottom Line: The 49ers have the edge — stronger offense, more complete playmakers, and a favorable matchup in San Francisco. But Panthers are no joke if they roll in with confidence and execute.

Finally, My Thanksgiving Quotes:

“If people are doubting how far you can go, go so far that you can’t hear them anymore.”

Michele Ruiz

 

“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.”

Anonymous

 

“We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.”

John F. Kennedy

 

My Great Grandson- The Thanksgiving Turkey- Tanoshi Sake Kama

My Great-Grandson, the Thanksgiving Turkey

Every family has its holiday traditions, some carve the turkey, some debate politics they promised not to bring up, and some… well, some apparently place their 5-month-old baby in a stock pot and call it a celebration.

This year, my great-grandson, yes, great-grandson—the son of my oldest granddaughter up in Portland, Oregon, made his grand Thanksgiving debut as the cutest “little turkey” our family has ever produced. And trust me, after all these years and all these Thanksgivings, that’s saying a lot.

There he sat, smiling proudly from inside a gleaming pot big enough to cook a small village’s worth of stew, wrapped in a kitchen towel and wearing a knitted turkey hat with eyes so wide it looked like it was just as surprised as the rest of us. Surrounding him were the classic Thanksgiving vegetables: carrots, potatoes, onions, celery like he was the star ingredient in a recipe we’d never have the heart or courage to finish.

But behind the jokes and the adorable absurdity, the photo hit me in a more reflective way. To look at him, my great-grandson, all bright-eyed and delighted by the world is to be reminded how many chapters of life I’ve lived, and how many new ones our family continues to write.

There’s something deeply grounding about seeing the next generation (and the next after that) stepping into the world with such innocence and joy. Especially knowing he comes from Portland, a city that embraces quirky creativity, so this photo feels about as on-brand as it gets.

In that one silly picture, I felt thanksgiving in its purest form:
For family that grows.
For traditions that evolve.
For grandchildren who become parents.
And for little ones who remind us that laughter is still the best seasoning to any holiday.

I’m grateful this year deeply, personally, wholeheartedly grateful for the chance to watch my family continue on, one tiny turkey at a time.

Happy Thanksgiving from our beautifully blended, slightly mischievous, wonderfully growing family. 🦃❤️

Meanwhile Here's AI Analysis of the Above Photo:

This is an adorable and intentionally playful Thanksgiving photo, and I can give you a thoughtful analysis without identifying anyone personally.

What’s in the image

• A smiling, roughly 5-month-old baby sitting inside a large stock pot on a stovetop (clearly not in use).

• The pot is lined with a kitchen towel for comfort.

• The baby is wearing a crocheted hat shaped like a turkey—big eyes, beak, colorful felt “feathers.”

• Surrounding the pot are classic soup or stew vegetables: carrots, potatoes, celery, onions.

• A decorative “thankful” sign emphasizes the Thanksgiving theme.

• Everything is arranged deliberately for a light-hearted, festive presentation.

This photo falls squarely into the category of playful, staged holiday baby photos.

It’s meant to be funny and cute, not realistic. Many families do Thanksgiving and Christmas photos where babies are placed in oversized props, pumpkins, stockings, baskets, cooking pots, gift boxes because babies’ expressions make the scenario charming rather than literal.

What makes this photo feel intentional rather than tacky:

• The baby looks comfortable and happy.

• The pot is clearly a prop, safely lined and not turned on.

• The vegetables and decor emphasize the theme in a tongue-in-cheek way.

• The turkey hat softens the whole concept, it signals humor immediately.

Why people enjoy this type of photo

• It captures the humor and joy of a baby’s first holiday season.

• It plays on the “little turkey” Thanksgiving expression that parents often use affectionately.

• It’s whimsical, not serious and relatives typically love these keepsakes.

Bottom line

It’s cute, silly, festive and whimsical.  The picture communicates warmth, humor, and the creativity of whoever set it up. It’s exactly the kind of photo families look back on fondly years later.

Meanwhile, Just, A REMINDER of the Bancroft Gardens Night Show

For Details visit:

https://www.ruthbancroftgarden.org/garden-of-dlights/

Finally, Here are some Photos of Ditas and I Dinner at Tanoshi Japanese Bistro last night;

Ditas and I were in our semi-private booth

The Sake Kama-Grilled Salmon Collar- Yummy 

The Red Dragon Sushi

The Kaka ( grilled Salmon collar) reminds  me of my Younger Days in the Philippines. One of the best dishes served here at Tanoshi. 

My Great-Grandson, the Thanksgiving Turkey

Every family has its holiday traditions, some carve the turkey, some debate politics they promised not to bring up, and some… well, some apparently place their 5-month-old baby in a stock pot and call it a celebration.

This year, my great-grandson, yes, great-grandson—the son of my oldest granddaughter up in Portland, Oregon, made his grand Thanksgiving debut as the cutest “little turkey” our family has ever produced. And trust me, after all these years and all these Thanksgivings, that’s saying a lot.

There he sat, smiling proudly from inside a gleaming pot big enough to cook a small village’s worth of stew, wrapped in a kitchen towel and wearing a knitted turkey hat with eyes so wide it looked like it was just as surprised as the rest of us. Surrounding him were the classic Thanksgiving vegetables: carrots, potatoes, onions, celery like he was the star ingredient in a recipe we’d never have the heart or courage to finish.

But behind the jokes and the adorable absurdity, the photo hit me in a more reflective way. To look at him, my great-grandson, all bright-eyed and delighted by the world is to be reminded how many chapters of life I’ve lived, and how many new ones our family continues to write.

There’s something deeply grounding about seeing the next generation (and the next after that) stepping into the world with such innocence and joy. Especially knowing he comes from Portland, a city that embraces quirky creativity, so this photo feels about as on-brand as it gets.

In that one silly picture, I felt thanksgiving in its purest form:
For family that grows.
For traditions that evolve.
For grandchildren who become parents.
And for little ones who remind us that laughter is still the best seasoning to any holiday.

I’m grateful this year deeply, personally, wholeheartedly grateful for the chance to watch my family continue on, one tiny turkey at a time.

Happy Thanksgiving from our beautifully blended, slightly mischievous, wonderfully growing family. 🦃❤️

Meanwhile Here's AI Analysis of the Above Photo:

This is an adorable and intentionally playful Thanksgiving photo, and I can give you a thoughtful analysis without identifying anyone personally.

What’s in the image

• A smiling, roughly 5-month-old baby sitting inside a large stock pot on a stovetop (clearly not in use).

• The pot is lined with a kitchen towel for comfort.

• The baby is wearing a crocheted hat shaped like a turkey—big eyes, beak, colorful felt “feathers.”

• Surrounding the pot are classic soup or stew vegetables: carrots, potatoes, celery, onions.

• A decorative “thankful” sign emphasizes the Thanksgiving theme.

• Everything is arranged deliberately for a light-hearted, festive presentation.

This photo falls squarely into the category of playful, staged holiday baby photos.

It’s meant to be funny and cute, not realistic. Many families do Thanksgiving and Christmas photos where babies are placed in oversized props, pumpkins, stockings, baskets, cooking pots, gift boxes because babies’ expressions make the scenario charming rather than literal.

What makes this photo feel intentional rather than tacky:

• The baby looks comfortable and happy.

• The pot is clearly a prop, safely lined and not turned on.

• The vegetables and decor emphasize the theme in a tongue-in-cheek way.

• The turkey hat softens the whole concept, it signals humor immediately.

Why people enjoy this type of photo

• It captures the humor and joy of a baby’s first holiday season.

• It plays on the “little turkey” Thanksgiving expression that parents often use affectionately.

• It’s whimsical, not serious and relatives typically love these keepsakes.

Bottom line

It’s cute, silly, festive and whimsical.  The picture communicates warmth, humor, and the creativity of whoever set it up. It’s exactly the kind of photo families look back on fondly years later.

Meanwhile, Just, A REMINDER of the Bancroft Gardens Night Show

For Details visit:

https://www.ruthbancroftgarden.org/garden-of-dlights/

Finally, Here are some Photos of Ditas and I Dinner at Tanoshi Japanese Bistro last night;

Ditas and I were in our semi-private booth

The Sake Kama-Grilled Salmon Collar- Yummy 

The Red Dragon Sushi

The Sake Kama ( grilled Salmon collar) reminds  me of my Younger Days in the Philippines. One of the best dishes served here at Tanoshi. 

Sake kama refers to the grilled collar or neck of a salmon, which is considered a delicacy in Japanese cuisine. It is a rich and fatty cut of fish with a succulent, tender texture and a crispy skin when grilled. The term is a combination of "sake," the Japanese word for salmon, and "kama," which means fish collar. 

• What it is: Sake kama is the cut of fish located just below the head of the salmon.
• Flavor and texture: It has a rich, juicy, and fatty texture that melts in your mouth, providing a different taste from other parts of the salmon.
• Preparation: It is most often prepared by grilling, typically with a simple seasoning of salt and pepper, or with a glaze like teriyaki or mirin.
• How it's served: It is commonly served with a squeeze of lemon and a side of soy sauce or ponzu sauce for dipping.