SoulShine

Park Play Time!

2012-03-06T16:26:00.003-05:00

The kiddos were excited this week for some park play time! We weren't sure of the clouds' intentions at first, but we are grateful they decided to let us play outside! Lovin' the new backyard play space!!

(Written by Ms. Ilana)

Thank You

2012-03-04T19:56:00.000-05:00

We are so happy that spring has sprung. The kids and the employees have all brightened up, as well as the nature. I am upset that I never got to thank all of you parents for your continued support during our difficulties. We/I love you all thank you.

(Written by Mr. BC)

Costume Time!

2012-03-01T11:05:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite new playtime activities at SoulShine is DRESS UP! What a fantastic way to see some of our unused clothing get a new life in the imaginations of our SoulShiners! Wacky wigs, flowing scarves, fun hats, stylish jackets, and much, much more spark the creative bug in our kids! And of course, if you don't see your favorite accessory, just make it out of paper! Mackenzie is showing off her "granny style" with handmade paper eyeglasses! Hmmmm... I think a SoulShine Fashion Show is in order!

(Written by Ms. Elan)

Back to the Beautiful Chaos

2012-02-29T12:20:00.002-05:00

Most people would be happy if they didn't have to go to work for a month. But my days felt incomplete without seeing my forty-something closest friends. Honestly, I was bored without the responsibility of answering homework questions and knock-knock jokes. Since I've been working at Soulshine, I've learned the skill of juggling multiple tasks simultaneously, and with a smile on my face. There is something beautiful about the chaos of seven kids screaming in your face at once. While at times it can seem overwhelming, it keeps me going. After being with the kids all day, instead of drained, I feel energized. Work is a breeze. Thank you to all the Soulshine kids and parents who keep my life interesting and stress-free. I'm so happy to be back!

(Written by Ms. Josalin)

City Life

2012-02-28T16:09:00.002-05:00

The other day when we were at the park, I was sitting down to take a break from pushing the kids on the swing. I was just keeping an eye out, when Nathan (Age 11, 5th grade) came and sat beside me. After a few minutes of small talk, he says to me, "When I get older I don't really think I want to live in the city." As everyone has their own desires, I just asked him if he thought a rural, more secluded lifestyle suited him better. In which he responded with, "It's not so much my lifestyle, it's all the other people. They're just living fake lives. They all depend on technology and what other people say so much that they're turning into robots. I just don't want to have a fake life like that. Plus if I live stranded, my bills will be a lot cheaper!" After several more minutes of conversation, I found myself agreeing with him more and more. It reminded me to not get so caught up in our daily routine and responsibilities that we forget we're not "programmed" to do anything. Sometimes we have to do things just to prove we're still alive, and not just following the commands of the world around us. ;)

(Written by Mr. Colton)

Carrot Bread

2012-01-08T17:39:00.000-05:00

Welcome Back to school Everyone, we missed y'all. I hope everybody had a good break, I know I did. Even though it's still not quite as cold outside as I'd like, it's cold enough for Carrot Bread. This recipe is fast becoming a personal favorite, and it seemed to be a big hit at the park on Tuesday afternoon. If you'd like to enjoy some at home, here is my quick easy recipe...

3 cups all -purpose

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

3 eggs

2 cups sugar

1 cup vegetable oil

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup milk

2 cups fresh grated carrot

in a bowl mix flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon

Mix slightly beaten eggs with sugar until creamy

add veg. oil, vanilla, and milk

add wet mixture to dry mixture. mix until almost fully mixed, and add carrots. mix rest of mixture

Pour into to greased 8.5x4.5 loaf pans

Bake at 350 degrees for 55 minutes or until a toothpick is removed clean

...Enjoy and Happy New Year to all.

(Written by Mr. Dave)

Jolene, We Will Miss You!

2012-01-05T20:17:00.000-05:00

Jolene and her family will be enjoying 2012 in California!

I am so grateful to have spent the past year and a half getting to know Jolene and her wonderfully positive attitude towards life, and I am sure the sunny days in California will only increase her shining personality!

Good luck, Jolene and family :)

Have a wonderful time, and please write/visit us soon <3 <3 <3

Jolene and Hannah

(Written by Ms. Elan)

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-27T21:17:00.002-05:00

The holiday season is here. It was a short week, but an enjoyable one. We got to see Arthur Christmas on Wednesday and on Thursday, Na'im, the five year old chess wizard, taught me how to play chess. It's really awesome when I can go to work and learn new things.

By the way, I did not win a single a game, but now I love chess.

Happy Holidays! Enjoy the break.

(Written by Mr. Dave)

That Boy's Got Moves!

2011-12-23T20:47:00.000-05:00

Today I learned how to play chess! My teacher? A five year old. Not only did he teach me, he beat me...several times. Soulshine's very own Naim is a chess whiz! Our games lasted a lot longer than they should have because every time I was about to make a bad move, Naim would say, "Are you sure you want to do that?" He would then coach me, patiently, offering 2 or 3 alternative moves that would keep me from being checked. One time, when he captured my queen on the third move and I seemed frustrated, he let me have the piece back so I could have a shot (however small) at a comeback. Needless to say, that boy's got moves!

Naim's bishop about to take my king: Check mate!

Naim, age 5

(Written by Ms. Josalin)

I Can Sense It!

2011-12-22T16:12:00.001-05:00

Usually, when I get to work on Wednesdays, Luca (age4) is there waiting for me, after being dropped off by his mom. And we get some much appreciated one on one time, seeing as none of the children are back yet. Well Luca's favorite new thing to do is sit outside and guess when the bus will round the corner. It all started a few weeks ago, while Luca and I were sitting on the swings out front, both participating in light banter. For a moment we stopped talking, and I looked over at Luca, and I saw a thought race through his brain. When I asked him what he was thinking about he looked at me and exclaimed 'I CAN SENSE IT!!' "Sense what," I asked as Luca jumped out of the swing and raced to the corner of the fence. 'Sense what?!' I replied. "The SoulShine bus!! I can sense that it's almost here!" And, sure enough not thirty seconds later the bus rounded the corner. He created his own game! Precious!

(Written by Mr. Brett)

No Homework!

2011-12-19T20:34:00.000-05:00

Today was the first day, in a while, the kids did not have any homework. They were so excited to be able to play all day. Most of them went right outside without even eating snack (but coming back a few minutes later to get some food ;) ). Today was a fun day for both the teachers and the kids since we were able to relax, play, and just enjoy the afternoon together.

(Written by Ms. Marie-Lies)

Exploration and Discovery

2011-12-15T21:07:00.000-05:00

The transition that SoulShine made this year was monumental, and our students have adapted to a brand new environment through exploration! I have watched them get comfortable with their new surroundings by poking, digging, climbing, swinging, looking, and (best of all) sharing their discoveries with enthusiasm and wonder. Sophia searches for rocks and crystals, Logan found a gorgeous butterfly wing, and Nathan and Aleks take a photo with a big green caterpillar. And though they may be tempted to bring home their new-found friends, Nathan always reminds our Soulshiner's that the natural habitat is the best place for those critters to thrive, so we gently return them to their homes to allow them to grow on their own. Who knows... perhaps we'll get a visit from an extra friendly butterfly, stopping by to show us how he has changed!

My Happiness

2011-12-15T21:05:00.000-05:00

Although everyday is the best day when you get to come to work at SoulShine, today was especially wonderful. We had beautiful weather, happy kids, and a fabulous compliment from a prospective parent. She had come by to interview us for her son as she recently moved to Atlanta. After I gave her a grand tour and was escorting her out she said "SoulShine is one of the reasons we wanted to move to Atlanta." I was beyond flattered and even as I write this now it makes me emotional. I feel extremely blessed to have the privilege of taking care of your children. It fills my heart with love and my cup runs overs with happiness at their smiles.

(Written by Ms. Shannon)

Sunshine Day Dream!!!

2011-12-15T10:23:00.000-05:00

As brightly as our souls usually shine here, the beautiful sun brightens our smiles tenfold! We couldn't wait to get through homework and head to the park! We pretty much forgot it was December. We enjoyed a bit of swinging, good old fashioned chasing each other, some fun in the field, and a few exciting relay races! I sure hope that big, bright ball of light in the sky doesn't shy away anytime soon!

(Written by Ms. Ilana)

Drawing Lessons

2011-12-14T11:01:00.000-05:00

I've never been good at drawing. This is something I've just accepted over the years. I'll write a 20 page paper no problem, but don't ask me to draw a person...or a dog....or anything that requires artistic skill. Despite the many times I've told our Soulshiners this, they insist that I am a great artist and commission me to manifest whatever their little imaginations dream up. It's hard to say no when someone believes in you with everything they have, without any doubt in their mind. It's hard not to try. So I tried. And I made beautiful princesses and princes and mermaids and dragons and people and dogs of all kinds. I'm a little embarrassed to admit this, but the positive feedback I've gotten from the kids has given me confidence in my drawing abilities. They say, "Wow, that's really good Ms. Josalin!" and I know they are being completely honest, which allowed me to feel good about what I was creating for them. And, if I don't say so myself, I have definitely improved my drawing skills over the course of this year! It's funny how, as teachers, we think we are supposed to be the ones giving the kids encouragement and confidence, telling them that they are awesome and pushing them to do their best. Then, when you're least expecting it, they turn right around and do all those things for you.

(Written by Ms. Josalin)

2011-12-13T20:13:00.000-05:00

I really enjoy when kids do not want to leave when their parents show up. It makes me feel like we are doing a good job. On days like today when the weather is nice, it is even more apparent because the kids are so enthralled in playing.

(Written by Mr. BC)

Thank Goodness for Little Boys

2011-12-12T19:55:00.001-05:00

Today I stood outside and watched the 5th graders play with the younger boys. It was interesting to see how they interacted and how the bigger boys modified the rules to play with the younger ones. However, on a few occasions the little ones actually had to remind the 5th graders they were playing with younger kids! :D It was nice to see that the kids could play together and solve their differences without a teacher.

(Written by Ms. Marie-Lies)

Squash Bread

2011-12-10T12:41:00.002-05:00

So this week I decided to experiment with a recipe for squash bread. The result was a moist, delicious bread that everyone loved. With the seasons changing, I am being challenged to try new recipes, which is exciting for me and the kids at SoulShine.

Here is my Squash Bread Recipe:

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

3 eggs (beaten)

1 cup vegetable oil

2 1/4 cups sugar

3 teaspoon vanilla extra

2 cups grated yellow squash

Sift flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon.

Beat eggs, oil, vanilla, and sugar.

Add sifted ingredients to wet ingredients then stir in squash.

Fill two 8.5 X 4.5 loaf pans.

Bake at 325 degrees for 50- 55 minutes.

Enjoy! This recipe also freezes well.

(Written by Mr. Dave)

Is she from China...?

2011-12-08T17:13:00.000-05:00

At Soulshine, we have always encouraged healthy interaction with animals so that the children grow up learning how to respect our furry friends in both a home environment and in nature. Though many Soulshiners have their own pets of all shapes and sizes, they never tire of playing with our Soulshine dogs: Coda, Halia, and Nouba. Coda and Halia belong to Miss Shannon, and Nouba is my wonderful doggie. Nouba is a unique mix of Border Collie, Chow, and Australian Shepherd, making her incredibly intelligent, obedient, loyal, and absolutely wonderful with children. Most kids are initially fascinated by her black tongue, which leads me to explain her breed combination. As I describe the history of each breed and their traits, they usually stop me mid-description of the Chow breed with: "So, is Nouba from China?!" I always laugh and explain that I rescued Nouba from the Atlanta Humane Society, but that somewhere her family tree probably does lead back to China. And if you need a little proof, just ask 3rd-grader Mia who knows how much Nouba loves toasted seaweed as a snack!

(Written by Ms. Elan)

Rain or Shine

2011-12-07T21:03:00.002-05:00

Rain or shine, we always seem to have fun! Despite the gloom of dark clouds and chilly rain, SoulShiners wore smiles all day long. From learning together as we plowed through homework, to eating together as we nourished our bodies with zucchini bread and apples, I'd say Tuesday was something of a success. We even got to spend time with our favorite puppet variety show, The Muppets! And, thanks to the rain, all of our plants' bellies are now nice and full! Blessings abound!!!

(Written by Ms. Ilana)

The Wind's the Best!

2011-12-07T13:30:00.000-05:00

One day when the kids and I were outside on the play field, a powerful gust of wind blew over us, rustling leaves and shaking trees. I watched as Lily (age 4) stood, with her eyes closed and her arms open to let the wind pass over her. She then ran around in circles, joyfully announcing, ‎"The wind's the best! I don't know why the wind's the best, it's just the best! I love the wind! Mmmmwah! I kissed the wind! hahahaha."

This little moment made me realize how much our kids appreciate the simple things in life. They make time to enjoy Mother Nature's wonderful gifts, soaking it all up and living in the moment. They are constant reminders to us, telling us to slow down when we are caught up in the hectic routine of our busy lives.

(Written by Ms. Josalin)

Rain, Rain, Go Away

2011-12-06T22:27:00.003-05:00

I really hate when it rains! The kids are trapped inside all day. While doing homework with the 3rd, 4th and 5th graders today I often caught them and myself starring out the window wishing that we could go out to play. I wonder what they do about getting some of their energy out while at school, anything?? The worst part about it is that it is supposed to rain for the next few days.

We cannot wait for some sunshine at SoulShine!

(Written by Mr. BC)

Infinity

2011-12-06T22:23:00.001-05:00

As much time as I've spent with these kids, they still never cease to amaze me. It's in the way they find simplicity in the most complex situations, that is most admirable. Last week I asked Xander (Age 5, Kindergarten) what his favorite number was, with the intention of hearing him say seven or some other whole integer. What he replied with left me in shock. I asked his favorite number, and he simply replies with, "Infinity." As infinity is definitely a number of sorts, there's no way I could tell him that that was not the answer I was looking for, so I just responded with, "Why?" He says to me, "because it never stops, duh." As he ran away, I was left just standing there pondering what he said. If it's admirable enough to a child to never stop, that it's a basis on his decision, then why do we sell ourselves short so often by quitting? Sometimes we have to be infinite, as Xander would say, and just never give in. I hope this brings as much of a smile to your face, and helps you through the week as it did me.

(Written by Mr. Colton)

December Warmth

2011-12-05T20:53:00.002-05:00

It is so nice that it is still warm outside even though we are in December! The SoulShiners are taking advantage of the weather before and after their homework. Today, for instance we walked to and from the park to enjoy the warm weather. Hopefully, the weather stays nice for a few more days.

(Written by Ms. Marie-Lies)

SoulShine Snacks

2011-12-04T16:55:00.001-05:00

This week marked the end of our pumpkin bread season. It saddens me a little because it is my favorite bread to make for the kids, as well as being a SoulShine favorite. As we head into winter, we can fill our bellies with apple bread, banana bread, and zucchini bread but our delicious pumpkin bread will be missed. Our local Dekalb Farmer's Market will no longer be stocking pumpkins, but if you are lucky enough to come across some...

Here is my recipe...

3 cups pumpkin puree

1 1/2 cups vegetable oil

4 cups granulated sugar

6 eggs (beaten slightly)

4 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 1/2 teaspoons ground nutmeg

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves

1/2 ground ginger

In a large bowl mix pumpkin, oil, sugar, and eggs.

In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.

Stir dry ingredients into pumpkin mixture until moist.

Pour into three 8.5 X 4.5 loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

This recipe makes a lot, but luckily it freezes really well.

Enjoy! Cheers to fall.

(Written by Mr. Dave)

Why is the King higher than the Queen?

2011-12-02T13:25:00.002-05:00

Our SoulShiners constantly surprise me with their observations of the world and how it shows in their imagination. When playing cards with 4 year-old Olivia, I shuffled the deck and let her deal them out. She slowly turned over a Queen card and asked me in the most sincere manner, "Why is the King higher than the Queen when she's the one that has the babies?" I paused, processing the question, then chuckled a little at how profound it truly was! I gave her a sly smile and replied, "I know! I've been trying to figure that out my whole life!" Olivia's words stuck with me, and I created an artwork in honor of that oh-so-important question!

(Written by Ms. Elan)

2011-11-09T13:52:00.006-05:00

SoulShine was founded in December of 2006, over the holiday break. Parents and volunteers painted the walls, donated furniture, and came together in celebration of what we like to think of as the best after-school classes in Atlanta. You will often walk into SoulShine and hear Bob Dylan playing on the radio accompanied by children's laughter. Our teachers encourage the children to participate in art, and will often be right beside them making a mask of their own. We paint faces, play dress-up, build forts and make every day an adventure. We would love for you and your family to come and make your SoulShine!

SoulShine is in the process of updating our curriculum and joining forces with the Crafts of Change project. If you have any questions, please email makeyoursoulshine@gmail.com!

Stay tuned for these exciting changes!