Author Archives: chefpocket

Parenting

The Shocking Moment That Made Me Question Everything

Well, it’s happened. My baby boy—the same kid who used to think money grew on trees and that ‘work’ meant picking up his clothes from the floor—is now officially job hunting.

At 14, he’s decided it’s time to ‘become an earner’ (his words, not mine), so he can start saving… and, let’s be honest, spending. Nothing screams financial wisdom like a teenager with a first paycheck and a world full of sneakers (they must be white), gaming accessories, and Polo by Ralph Lauren.

On one hand, I’m bursting with pride. My son is eager, responsible, and ready to take on the world—one part-time shift at a time. On the other hand… HOW DID THIS HAPPEN SO FAST?! Just yesterday, I was bribing him with ice cream to eat his vegetables, and now he’s filling out applications like a full-fledged adult (except with significantly worse handwriting).

I know this is just the beginning. Soon, he’ll have his own money, his own sense of independence, and—gulp—the realization that taxes are a thing. But for now, I’ll just be over here, trying to hold it together as my kid takes his first real step into the working world.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
Social Commentary

Trump & USA vs. Canada Hockey Showdown

As the USA and Canada gear up for the 4 Nations Face-Off championship, the ice is heating up—both from the players’ skates and the political jabs exchanged off the rink. With recent tensions, including President Trump’s playful suggestion of making Canada the 51st state and the ensuing tariff tussles, this isn’t just a game; it’s a face-off of national pride.

USA Hockey GM Bill Guerin has extended a warm invitation to President Trump, stating, “We would love it if President Trump was in attendance.” Imagine the energy boost for Team USA, knowing their Commander-in-Chief is cheering them on from the stands.

Plus, with Canadian fans recently booing “The Star-Spangled Banner,” what better way to counter than having President Trump lead our anthem with gusto? It’s the perfect opportunity to show unity, strength, and perhaps even share a friendly wink with our northern neighbors.

So, Mr. President, dust off that jersey, grab a foam finger, and let’s drop the puck!

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Parenting, Social Commentary

The Non-Accidental Family

IVF: Because Some of Us Weren’t Blessed with an Accidental Family

For some lucky folks, starting a family is as simple as a romantic evening, a bottle of wine, and a little bad timing. For the rest of us? Well, let’s just say that biology didn’t get the memo. Enter IVF—the modern miracle for those of us who can’t seem to reproduce the old-fashioned way, despite really, really trying. As fun as that may be!

Now, some might say, “If it doesn’t happen naturally, maybe it wasn’t meant to be.” To which we say: By that logic, glasses, antibiotics, and WiFi weren’t meant to be either—but here we are, seeing clearly, curing diseases, and binge-watching Netflix. Science is a beautiful thing, and IVF is just another example of humanity refusing to take “no” for an answer.

Trump Signs Executive Order Expanding Access to IVF – Want to read more about it? Google it!

Go forth and propagate!

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Social Commentary

Why is the ICC ignoring genocide in South Africa?

I am profoundly heartbroken and alarmed by the brutal violence escalating in South Africa, where countless innocent white citizens, particularly Afrikaner farmers, are being subjected to unimaginable torture and murder. These are families, fathers, mothers, and children who deserve to keep their land and the right to live without fear.

For too long, the world has turned a blind eye to their suffering. However, President Trump stepped forward when the world remained silent, recognizing their plight and offering a lifeline through refugee status. He took it one step further by refusing any aid to South Africa while the government stands by and, in some cases, orchestrates the genocide. His willingness to acknowledge this crisis gives hope to those who felt abandoned.

I plead for awareness, for justice, and for the world to open its eyes to the horrors these people endure daily.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
Parenting, Private

Sixteen Years of Ghosts

This week, my son should be turning sixteen. I should be watching him stand in the doorway, tall as his dreams, his shoulders carrying the weight of years he never got to hold. I should know the sound of his voice—a deep, steady river of a thing, shaped by time, by life, by moments that never were. I picture his hands—strong, gentle—gripping a steering wheel, spinning a basketball, holding onto a world that I will never get to know through him. Would he love music? Would he write? Would his laughter split the air, cracking open the sky the way joy is supposed to?
I find myself reaching for him in the quiet spaces, in the shadow of his name unspoken. Sixteen candles should flicker this week, melting wax into memories made. But the cake remains uncut, the song unsung, and time bends in on itself like a cruel trick. Because he never grew into the man I see in my mind. He never took a breath past eighteen months. And for sixteen years, I have carried the weight of someone who never became—loving the ghost of a boy who is forever just beyond my reach.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Not So Private Thoughts, Parenting, Social Commentary

The case against having children

Parenting and kids are increasingly portrayed by society as liabilities rather than assets. A change in the way our nation views family life is reflected in the emerging narrative that has been highlighted in recent articles. For example, the Surgeon General’s caution that parenting is bad for mental health implies that being a parent is a solitary and possibly dangerous task. This perspective reduces having children to a simple cause of stress and loneliness, ignoring the deep joy and fulfillment they bring into our lives.

Furthermore, it’s becoming increasingly common to have conversations about being “child-free” or unsure about having children. The papers note that a growing number of young Americans are debating whether to have parents due to concerns about money and the high standards set for modern parents. Compared to previous generations, when having children was viewed as a normal and fulfilling aspect of life, this is a significant shift.

American families’ future. Are we allowing the inherent worth of parenthood to be eclipsed by societal demands and growing costs? It’s imperative for parents to counter this unfavorable narrative. Children are a source of love, hope, and continuity—not problems. Parenting presents certain challenges, but the benefits of raising the next generation significantly exceed them.

References:
Parenting Is Hazardous to Your Health, the Surgeon General Warns – The nation’s doctor says parents are lonely. Maybe it’s really the powerlessness of parenthood that’s gotten us down.
https://www.wsj.com/tech/surgeon-general-warning-parenting-mental-health-53f75c63

How Americans Are Thinking About Children – From the ‘child-free’ to the ‘maybe someday’ parents.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/how-americans-are-thinking-about-children-fa8fff60?mod=opinion_feat4_letterstoeditors_pos3

Why Americans Aren’t Having Babies – The costs and rising expectations of parenthood are making young people think hard about having any children at all.
https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/relationships/americans-babies-childless-birthrate-daf438f9?mod=article_inline

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Social Commentary

Why Denial Is Killing Progress

It’s essential to have constructive discussions on how to address challenges or areas needing improvement. But let’s start by acknowledging what has transpired.

We live in a dynamic world with constant shifts and changes. Examining the facts and data isn’t contentious; it’s a prerequisite for meaningful dialogue. Only by grasping and embracing our current reality can we move forward constructively.

Movements that choose to deny reality do so because they lack a viable alternative and resort to stalling tactics. However, standing still is not a real option; it only delays progress.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Parenting

Food for Thought

In the tapestry of our family life, food and grandparents are the warp and weft, weaving together the very essence of the home of my boys and me. Their presence infuses the air with warmth and comfort, turning a house into a sanctuary and a sanctuary into a home. From the kitchen emanates the rich aroma of homemade meals, crafted with love and tradition, nurturing both body, soul, and maybe a glass of wine (or two). Meanwhile, the love of grandparents reverberates through the walls, a symphony of joy that uplifts and binds generations together. In this embrace of culinary delights and familial bonds, we find solace, connection, and the true heartbeat of home—the nourishing blend of food, family, and love. We are blessed with every home-cooked meal and hug.

P.S. Let’s not forget the joy of our furry friend, Eva, who is almost certainly an alien.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
Faith - huh?, General Ramblings, Not So Private Thoughts, Uncategorized

The Power of Speaking to Your Mountains!

As we navigate life’s journey, we MUST cling to the promises of success, joy, and triumph found in God’s Word. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.”

God’s word is a source of life, healing, and redemption. Psalm 107:20 says, “He sent out his word and healed them.” When God spoke, healing and rescue followed. John 14:12 reminds us that: “whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do EVEN GREATER things.”. It’s not enough to think good thoughts; it’s not enough to pray. We have to speak to our mountains. Speak! Mark 11:23 says: Whoever will say to this mountain be removed, and does not doubt, he will have whatever he says”. Don’t speak defeat, speak success.

Ephesians 3:20 promises that God will do exceedingly, abundantly above all we ask. ASK! His blessings will chase us down and overtake us when we ask and profess it. God’s favor surrounds us BUT “We will eat the fruit of our words”, Proverbs 18:21. It’s not enough to believe. We must talk confidently and remind God to fulfill every promise He has spoken over our lives so we experience the abundant success, overflowing joy, and unwavering victory that God has prepared for us.

Even in the face of challenges, the Bible provides solace and reassurance. In John 16:33, Jesus affirms, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” While struggles may arise, the promise of victory in Christ surpasses any obstacle we encounter.

As we navigate life’s challenges, let’s hold fast to God’s promises of success, joy, and victory. Our faith is not in our circumstances but in the unchanging Word of God. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

God wants us to succeed in every area of our lives. In Joshua 1:8, we’re reminded, “For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”

We are not created for mediocrity; we are created to be prosperous, to have success, joy, and health! Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

“The tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.” Proverbs 15:4.

What does all this mean to me? Simple! I needed to read them. I needed to be reminded of the power of the tongue and the promises made to me. I am encouraged to speak my success, to tell my mountains of negativity, doubt, and defeat to be removed. “Nothing will be impossible for you.'”, Matthew 17:20.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard
General Ramblings, Uncategorized

From ‘You’ve got mail’ to ‘You’ve got patience’

Remember those good old days when we used to have a dial-up connection? Ah, the memories! Waiting for a webpage to load was like a mini-marathon for our patience. But hey, we made the most of it! Multitasking became a necessary skill; we would do jumping jacks, make a sandwich, or even fold laundry while waiting for that precious website to appear on our screens. Who needs a fancy gym membership when we had dial-up providing us with the ultimate cardio workout?

Back then, the internet was a different world. Whenever we heard that iconic “You’ve got mail” sound, we knew we were in for an adventure. But along with exciting emails came the challenges of dial-up browsing. We would sit there, staring at the loading icon, praying for a stable connection. It required an immense amount of patience and determination.

But you know what? We conquered those challenges! We became wizards at troubleshooting and fixing connection issues. It was like a secret society; only those who survived the dial-up era truly understood the struggles and triumphs we experienced.

Looking back, waiting for dial-up seems laughable now, but it was a significant part of our lives. It taught us perseverance, patience, and the ability to find entertainment in unexpected places. So, let’s raise a toast to those days when waiting for a webpage to load was our daily cardio routine. The struggle was real.

By Shaun Sima
https://chef-pocket.com/aboutme

Standard