On February 12, 2012 I wrote the first reflection for a new blog I called Sunflower Seeds: Celebrating Everyday Spirituality. This week marks the 13th anniversary of that venture. As I look back over the past 13 years, my heart is filled with wonder and gratitude. In the beginning, I wondered if I could learn how to do a blog since I had never done anything like this before. I also wondered if I could sustain writing a reflection every week or if I would quickly run out of ideas, time, and enthusiasm. And finally, I wondered if anyone would actually read the “stuff” I posted.
My heart is filled with gratitude too. First of all, to our Loving God who has given me my love for the power, mystery, and magic of words. So too I am grateful to Sister Susan Wolf who first suggested I write a blog. I hesitated. But she, who already had a popular blog called Catholic Web Solutions, persisted. Plus she offered to help me. I’m also grateful to the members of our IT Department who, over the years, came to my rescue many times. And I’m grateful for other bloggers who inspired me: SND bloggers Sisters Kathleen Glavich, Maresa Lilley, and Valerie Schneider. And bloggers like Macrina Weidekehr, OSB, Mary Ann Flannery, SC, Kathy Coffey, Eric Hollas, OSB, and many others.
And finally, I’m grateful to all of you, my readers. Some of you have been with me from the beginning. Others of you came to this site along the way–from years ago to just recently. Most of you are anonymous to me. But some of you have become new friends for me. I am especially grateful for your written comments which expand and enrich the scope of my writing.
During these past 13 years I have written about a wide variety of topics. Some topics you would expect: God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, scripture, prayer, Mary and other saints, the Mass. I’ve written about uplifting and hopeful things–like Christmas and Easter, ordinary people doing good and beautiful things, the gift of music, the wisdom of children, the saving grace of humor. I’ve also written about difficult things like death, grief, and very difficult times. (I mentioned my first post was Feb. 12, 2012. A short 15 days later, on the morning of Feb. 27, there was a shooting at Chardon High School across the street from St. Mary Church, school, and convent where I lived. That morning while some of us were at Mass, a student opened fire in the cafeteria shooting 5 students, 3 of them fatally. Phyllis, the mother of one of the boys killed, was at mass with us, sitting across the aisle from me. We had just waved the sign of peace to each other when we heard the first sirens… I was extremely shaken by this awful event but, through my tears, I posted a reflection about it on March 5, 2012. You can access that post by using the search box at the top of the right column.)
The emphasis on my blog has always been everyday spirituality. This includes various aspects of creation such as deer tracks in the snow, grandmother orcas, chipmunks under the porch, cinnamon, a total solar eclipse, those amazing trees, the mysticism of a green pepper, the secrets of octopuses, and even the miracle of mud. I write about everyday kinds of activities such as doing housework, visiting the library, shopping for groceries, riding a motorocycle, reading a good book, working zigsaw puzzles, sitting in a rocking chair, and the ways we say goobye. I have file folders stuffed with ideas for future blogs. Will I ever run out of ideas to write about? I think not. I probably will first run out of stamina, clarity of thought, or even time itself.
So, once again, my dear readers, I thank you for reading Sunflower Seeds. YOU are the main reason I continue to put out a new post virtually every Monday. Thank you for all the ways you inspire me by your faith, your devotion to prayer, and by your example of Christ-like living in our shared world!
Announcing a Raffle
To celebrate this 13th anniversary, I am holding a special raffle. As you know, my new book is out. It’s called Sunflower Seeds of Hope and it is a collection of 40 of my blogs complete with reflective questions and video suggestions. Some of you don’t know it yet, but you helped me write this book. That’s because the book also includes comments you wrote on my blog. (By the way, I dedicated this book to all my blog readers!) I am going to give away three signed copies of my new book to three lucky readers. To enter the drawing all you have to do is write a comment on my blog by February 28th. The comment can be brief. You can even just say, “Please enter my name in the raffle.” Everyone who comments will be entered one time in the drawing even if you comment more than once. Also, if you do not want your name in the raffle for any reason, just say that in your comment. On March 1 I’ll put the names of everyone who wrote a comment between Feb. 10- 28 into a bag and draw three names at random. Winners will be announced on Monday, March 3. I will mail the winners their free signed copy of my new book!
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PS: Next week we’ll celebrate Black History Month in a fun and inspiring way. Stay tuned!
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Everyday Spirituality… Wonder and Gratitude. These are some of the main themes of this blog. I surfed youtube to find a song that spoke these words to me and chose this one. It’s called “Holy as the Day Is Spent” and it’s by Carrie Newcomer. She reminds us that every day is holy… is a sacrament. I hope you too find her simple words and visuals both peaceful and prayerful…
I invite you to add a comment below… You will automatically be entered in the raffle if you do–unless you prefer not to be entered. Thanks so much!
232 Responses
God bless you as you continue to blog.
Thank you for all the inspiration of the years through the blogs and several retreats I have attended.
Congratulations on 13 years we are Blessed
What a gift for all of us!
Melanie,
I appreciate your Monday morning blogs.
God bless you and continue your good ministry.
Congratulations on this 13th anniversary! And congrats again on your new book. Thank you for so often reminding us of the holiness of everyday things.
Dear Melanie,
Congratulations on 13 years writing your blogs. I do enjoy them every Monday.
I met you a number of years ago at a retreat that you did in Northern California.
I enjoyed your last book and look forward to getting a copy of your new book.
Judy Hirou
This world benefits from positive thinking and reflection. Thank you for helping me do this through your blog!!! Judy
Sister Melannie
Thank you for your blogs. I’ve been looking forward to your Monday blogs for over three years. Keep up the excellent spiritual common sense.
Good morning, Sr. Melannie…
Good morning, all…
To echo Carrie Newcomer’s beautiful song: “Holy is your Sunflower’s blog!” Thank you!
I’m so grateful I found your blog, it’s just so uplifting every time. Congratulations and please know you bring contentment to me in a little corner of rural West Wales.
Andrea
Sister Melanie,
I’m so grateful for your wonderful blog. You jump start my Monday mornings! My FIAT sister group is sharing your “Hanging onto Hope” book published in 2018 that I discovered at a holiday bazaar book sale this past year. We can’t wait to read your newest one. Hope I win an autographed copy.
Also wanted to share that your start up date of February 12, 2012 was my husband’s 72nd birthday! He didn’t get to read your blog but I’m sure he would have appreciated you too!
Yesterday I shared a homily about “spiritual awakening” in the lives of Isaiah, Paul, and Peter. I challenged myself and the congregation to name our spiritual awakenings and not to take them for granted. I thought of many.
Your 13th anniversary blog is a reminder of the weekly experience of a spiritual awakening you offer all your readers.
Thank you.
Thank you for making spirituality real.
Congratulations on 13 years of inspiration based on the everyday. We desperately need to hear positive voices in the current strident and negative atmosphere. Thank you for your contribution. You rock!
Dear Sister Melanie, Congratulations! Think of how many lives you have touched through your inspiring words! We look forward to your blog each week! God bless you abundantly!
Congratulations, Melannie … and thank you for all you give to so many.
Thank you,Sister Melanie! ! I so look forward to your blog every Monday morning!
Every Monday, as I scan through my emails, I stop and smile because you have again remembered to write a reflection for us. Eagerly, I stop everything, put my earbuds in so as not to be disturbed, and my soul is refreshed by your words, beautiful photos and music. I am reading She this week, a joy and just about my attention level! Thank you…thank you every week as you brighten our Mondays….(and let me tell you-our priest can’t hold a candle to your ability to touch the every day experiences we have or the joy you bring, even in the tough topics of living). Sending you hugs and peace and keeping you always in my prayers.
I enjoy your beautiful stories. Thank you for adding to my Monday reflections.
Eva McReynolds
Congratulations on 13 years of your blog! What a blessing you have been to so many of us. I hope you can continue for many years to come, touching our hearts and souls each week. God bless you!
Thank you for your blog! I have come to it recently, but I appreciate the reminder of everyday spirituality – God is in it all! Thank you for your time and attention to this weekly column. It gives me Hope!
Blessings,
Debb
Sr Melannie, I am so grateful for your inspirational reflections that have been a part of my faith journey for longer than 13 years! Thank you! Happy Anniversary and Congratulations! God bless you always.
What a blessing you are to me and so many. Enter my name in the raffle.
Congratulations on 13 years of being inspired and inspiring! I am grateful and have enjoyed your reading your blog and watching the videos! Blessings!
S Melanie
You are such an inspiration to me, beyond words
🙏🏻❤️
Thank you Sister Melannie for your everyday wisdom. May God continue to bless this ministry!
Congratulations on 13 years, Sister! You are such a blessing! I am always so grateful for your insight and beautiful words! Thank you!
Congratulations on your anniversary! Every Monday morning it is the first thing I look for. Thank you for bringing me hope and inspiration every week.
God bless for your Sun flower Seeds !!!!!
Thank you for the weekly boost of joy and wisdom.
Thank you for the recommendation. Reading the book She, thanks to you. I’m probably one of your anonymous readers. I’ve never commented before. Thank you.
Pray for peace
Thanks, as usual, Sr. Melannie. I always enjoy beginning Monday mornings with your blog! I don’t think I’ve been with you for 13 years, but probably at least 10. I met you at a retreat you gave in Cincinnati some years ago, and started following you blog then. It has always been inspiring for me.
It is interesting and sometimes sentimental to look back over time. I will be retiring from my job of 45 years at the end of this month. My Mondays will be different then!
Again, thank you and Congratulations!
Kathy D
Sister Melannie,
Congratulations on your anniversary! My sister and I both read your blog and many times when we get together on Saturday mornings to walk, we will discuss what you wrote, sharing our thoughts and perspectives. The insight you bring on Monday mornings is so welcome at the beginning of a new week – thank you!
Thank you so much for your blog. You’ll never know how many hearts you have touched.
I enjoy your blog and I love reading the comments. Congratulations!
Congratulations! Thank-you for helping me see God in my every day world. In the chaos of this world I can miss so much of Him.
Maria Gillespie
Thank you so much for this beautiful blog which brings me so much joy, faith, hope and love❣️ you are a true gift to us! May the Lord bless you🙏
Congratulations 🎉 on 13 years of blogging! What a wonderful gift you are to so many people. As I read their comments I wish I could meet them and learn more about them.
I so enjoy your blogs — filled with inspiring and practical spirituality love when I see your entry in Give Us This Day too.
(Don’t enter my name. I’ll buy the book in our gift store)
Sister Melanie, I’d love to have your book!
Monday mornings are inspirational with your blog popping up in my inbox.
Thank you!
Happy Anniversary Blog, Melanie! You always get my week off to a good start. Thanks! Thanks, too, for recommending the book SHE; I ordered it right away.
Congratulations on 13 years of sharing your gift of writing and love with all of us. Thank you!
I really enjoyed the song today. It is a beautiful reminder for us to recognize God’s presence in the small moments of our everyday lives.
Bless you,
Donna
I am one of those ‘Johnnies come lately’ to your blog. I am really enjoying it. Thank you for taking the time to do so. I hope there will be many, many more to come.
Thank you for your wonderful blog! It’s so great to read something uplifting in these times we’re living in. God bless you!
Congratulations Melannie: Here’s to many more blogs and good health in creating them! They help so many off our readers.
Mary Ann Flannery, SC
What a wonderful Monday morning treat. Always an interesting topic. Keep up the good work, Sister Melannie.
Thank you for writing and sharing your ideas and wisdom, all of these years. How can it be 13 years since your first blog post? Oh, how time flies. Your words are inspiration and a salve to the soul. My mother, who was brilliantly-minded, a spiritual seeker and an avid reader, so soaked up your writings. You were one of her favorite authors. She passed away in early 2012 and in searching for a spiritual connection to my mom, I found your newly minted blog. You have been a connection, for me, to her spirit, her kindness, generosity and love, for all this time. You are a gift to so many people, me included. Thank you.
Thank you for the gift of your Blog and teaching. You continually invite us to find God’s Grace and Goodness in all creation, and most importantly, in each other. May you and your weekly, Spiritual invitations be with us for another 13+ years.
Thank you and Congratulations. Reading your blog is my favorite Monday morning past time.
Happy Anniversary, Sr. Melannie! Thank you for brightening up every Monday morning! And thanks for this song – I love Carrie Newcomer!
I really enjoy your blog, so very glad that I found you! You are an inspiration to all of us! God bless!
Thank you for your words and the music videos to go with them. I look forward to seeing your post on Mondays!
Hello Melannie,
I met you when you facilitated a Retreat at Siena Center in Racine, WI. (2017 ?).
Since then I have been delighted to receive Sunflower Seeds every Monday. I have enjoyed each and every one.!
Thank you so much for the inspiration and wisdom you share each week with all of us.
CONGRATULATIONS on 13 years of blogging!
May God give you Grace and Strength to continue This great Ministry.
Love and Blessings,
Ann
I hope to receive your new book—-we need HOPE.!!!
I love reading your reflections every Monday morning. Thank you for your continued efforts in sharing thoughts in this ever changing, challenging world. You are a light Sr Melanie💕
Always enjoyed your topics and how they fit so well with the music. It’s like the frosting on the birthday cake! You are truly a gift. As I start my chemo-holy is the day focused me on God’s love in this journey. You always find a way to reach all of us. Much love to you.
Sr. Melannie, I am so grateful for all your wonderful topics that inspire me and I share with others. I love the music that you connect with the topic. I meet you some years ago at one of your presentations at the Upper Room in NJ and have many of your books, I love all them but my favorite is “When the Blue Heron Flies “ page 65 “My mother’s yellow jacket” this book I used in my Hospice work with the patients, family and staff. My birthday was in January and my daughter gave my one of your books for my birthday and she said “The book will not get here for a while because it is not out yet” so I would like you to enter my name in the raffle so I can gift my daughter with your book! We both are faithful followers of your Sunflower Seeds blog.
Your blog is always the best way to begin the week.
Thank you, Sr. Melannie. I love this blog and share it with my friends! God bless!
Congratulations on 13 years of beautiful and inspiring writing! I so enjoy my weekly read of your posts, and have enjoyed a few of your retreats – in person (what a treat to meet you in person!) and virtual. The world needs more people like you – sharing your faith to make it real for all of us, so that we see the holy in the ordinary. Thank you for what you do, and sharing your gifts.
Happy anniversary, Sister Melanie.
Enjoy your blog every week.
Melannie,
Thank you for Spiritually uplifting my whole being.
I look forward to Monday Mornings and your writings.
And I love the music also. What JOY you bring to my day !
You have been an inspiration to me. A small group of lay women and Sisters at Saint Mary’s convent at Notre Dame have been reading your book on hope and discussing it recently. I also enjoyed meeting you at the Jesuit retreat house in Parma, Ohio. I look forward to every Monday to read your blog!
Thank you! I was given a highlighted copy of Everyday Epiphanies- seeing the sacred in everything, and it has become my little friend, a nearly daily reminder to let God buckle my shoe too (reflection #20- Little Hannah). How beautiful are the feet that bring the Gospel of Peace… you have most beautiful feet Dearest Sister Melannie
I stumbled across your blog just recently, but enjoy it very much.The blog about octopuses Found fascinating. Especially since I just finished the book Remarkably Bright Creatures, a novel with an octopus as a main character.
I find your wisdom helpful in many situations. I look forward to reading more from you.
I was educated by the SNDs in grammar and high school, and blessed to be taught by one special sister in 7th and 9th grade. The blessings have continued throughout the 63 years since I met her. (This being the 70th Jubilee of her entering the order…)
I was attracted to your blog by the familiar letters after your name. Your bio closely resembles the life’s journey of “my nun”. Your writings are a weekly blessing. I’m happy to read that you have a stockpile of ideas and plans to keep writing.
Good Morning Sister Melanie, I have been reading your blog for many years. Monday mornings can be difficult sometimes, but reading your blog brightens my day and gives hope to my soul. I really enjoyed today’s song and the images that accompanied it. It reminded me especially of my grandmother who loved God, nature and hung her wash on the line. May God continue to bless you.
Thank you, Sr Melannie, for the joy you’ve brought to my Monday mornings. Thank you for your insight, for the jokes, the book and music recommendations. I’ve forwarded your blog to friends and enjoy that they enjoy it.
Thank you, Sister Melanie. Every Monday morning, I look forward to reading your blog. You have been a blessing to me and to many others. May God bless you and keep you.
Praise and gratitude to God for life abundant!
Anniversaries are worth celebrating. You persevered for thirteen years! Congratulations!
And “Thank You,” too. Monday mornings have become more meaningful with your musings.
Thank you for calling our attention to the little things of God’s creationl. We’ve enjoyed your blog and used your books in our book club. Don’t enter my ñame for the raffle – save the chance for someone who is’nt familiar with your books! I’m always happy to buy your work!
Thanks for years of inspiration!
Buenos Dias
Every Monday so look forward for your blog
Such a beautiful way to start the week
Continue your Beautiful Blog as we journey through this life God gave us
Blessings
Char
Thank you for reminding us of the holy woven through every second of life. I love your easy writing and the way you bring the divine right into my humanity.
Keep on blogging! Happy anniversary.
Happy Anniversary!! Thank you for sharing your inspiration words with us!
Thank you so very much for sharing your words of wisdom for so many years. I am truly grateful and wish you much peace and blessings in days to come!
God bless you, Sister Melanie. Your blogs are so uplifting and inspirational. I love sharing them with my daughters. Congratulations on 13 years of inspiration and love.
Dear Sr Melanie,
About 4 years ago my daughter actually quoted you in her High School Valedictorian speech on the blog you wrote on hope and worry! I enjoy your writing and sentiments. Wishing you all best in the years ahead.
Sister, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, and may the Holy Spirit forever fill your heart and mind with future blog themes and music.
Since moving into senior living at Scalabrini Village, in Casa San Carlo last October with my husband Frank age 93, we enjoy your blog even more because of the wonderful residents who have become dear friends.
Our apartment. Has the best view of Sky and the lovely pond, trees, paths and public park adjoining all of this.
Have felt God guiding us to this place and His timing of it in our live.
We continue us to enjoy your books and blog!
Blessings and peace always, Marilyn Woidat
I recently received WHEN THE BLUE HERON FLIES from Better World Books and to my wonderful surprise, it has your signature on the dedication page along with “prayers & best wishes” to the book’s first owner. I also just learned that I’m expecting my 10th grandchild so I chose to read “Babies are a good idea” this morning. You wrote that babies “inspire us to hope for a better world” (the previous owner highlighted this 😇 so I didn’t have to 😉) Your blog, Sr. Svoboda, inspires hope too 🙏
Dear Melannie,
I have followed your blog for many years and had the pleasure of meeting you at Georgian Ct. in New Jersey many years ago, through the Upper Room Spiritual Center in Neptune, NJ.
Your words are always an inspiration and I do read them faithfully…not always on Monday.
Congratulations for 13 inspiring years. May God grace you and us with many more years of practical, uplifting and happy thoughts!
God bless you and keep you healthy and holy.
Love and prayers, Sister Josita
Congratulations on 13 yrs Sister Melannie. I first read your reflections in “Living Faith.” You were always a favorite writer of mine in that little booklet. Out of curiosity about your background, I googled you and encountered the blog and many other delightful books and publishings. I’ve been a fan ever since. You’re amazing and brilliant, and do much to strengthen and build a spiritual community for our Lord. Love ya Sister and keep ’em coming! Anita
Congratulations on 13 wonderful years. Mondays are rough in the clinical medical world and reading your blog always makes me 🙂. The added songs and pictures are a bonus & always spot on. You have brought all of us hope, inspiration and numerous suggestions on items to read or look into for this I’m immensely appreciative. Wishing you & all your readers a blessed day from sunny south Florida. 🌞🏖🌊
Thank you for the blessing of your words all these years!
Happy Anniversary and thank you for all you share with us.
Sr. Melanie
I am very appreciative of your weekly blogs. I am dealing with a return of cancer and very often your message hits close to home and seems applicable to my situation. Offering me a ray of hope and comfort!God bless you. Let us hold each other in prayer.
Thank you for who you are and all you give us. I am rereading your book on hope.great time for it. Again thanks
Congratulations, Sister Melannie. Thirteen years, WOW! I have only two regrets. One, that you dont live next door to me, and two, that I didn’t know about your blog ten years ago.
P.S. Please enter me in the raffle.
I look forward to your blog each week, makes Monday’s at work a little brighter. God Bless you and all the readers of this blog!
New here, but would love to read your book.
I learned from you in high school, so I am always interested in what you say! However, over the years you have grown in spirituality, and it is a grace to witness this! Also know, that you never could have started your blog any sooner than you did; through you, God’s grace was needed to teach me your ways.
I rarely comment but I read your blog every week. You regularly inspire me by your outlook on life, both spiritual and physical. I would very much like to be included in your raffle!
Congratulations on reaching this milestone! Not only have you introduced me to new authors and ideas, but new musicians. I enjoy your videos at the end of each post. Today I also thought of the song” Simple Things Are Holy” by Linda Breitag.Thank you!
Sr. Melanie, your song today was beautiful and meaningful. I also read your blogs in Living Faith, which is also a very inspiring little booklet (I read it every day) and where i got your name. Thks and keep up the good work.
Although not a Roman Catholic, I find your posts deep and meaningful. Christianity is Christianity. Please enter me in the drawing and keep up your inspired work!
I loved this song and simple video. I always enjoy your music choices, but this one spoke to me. As a single parent of four sons I learned to love the simple things. And now as a “senior citizen” I still enjoy the simple things. They are what keeps me going every day. Thank you for your blog and music videos.
Thank you for opening my eyes and my heart to finding God in the ordinary aspects of my life!
Kathleen
Thank you Sister for starting this blog and continuing for 13 years. Congratulations
Sister Melanie thank you for everyday spirituality reflections. I learned of your blog from the Living Faith devotional several years ago.
Keep up the good work!
Betty
Congratulations, Sister Melanie on thee publication of your new book. Thank you for bringing light into the darkness of the world’s woes.
Love this blog and many others. Each day is truly a gift. Thanks
Thank you, Sister Melanie, for blessing me with your writing for many years. God bless you.
Sister Melanie I have followed your blog for so many years that I cannot recall how many years that is. I have several of your books and would love to enter this raffle for the chance of adding one more of your books.
I look forward every Monday for your blog, and will continue to do so whether I am the recipient of this raffle or not.
I am grateful for your blog, it is part of my weekly ritual.
There is little I can say that has not already been said many times over except for this….we may be anonymous to you (understandably so) but you are not anonymous to us….you are known, beloved and chosen because you are you…..the one and only, spirit-filled woman who hungers to share your wisdom and hard earned understanding of what you find so essential to the deepening of your love of God, on this journey we call life.
Thank you for sharing with us the things that have touched and changed you in ways only you (and God) can know, in the hope that we too may find a new way of experiencing God in the myriad ways that God manifests Gods self to us.
I count on you to be one of the conduits to a deeper level of KNOWING!
Tnak you for that,
Mary N.
I look forward to reading your blog. Please enter my name in the raffle, Flo
Congratulations on your 13 years of blogging, I wish you many more. I truly enjoy reading your work, and enriching my spirituality Thank you!!!
Sister,, you always make the ordinary events in our lives extraordinary. Best wishes on your 13th anniversary of your blog
Time flies, hope to be reading these for another 13 years. God bless you and thank you for your inspiration.
I love your blog and I would love to be one of the lucky ones to receive your new book.
I add my thanks for inspiration, laughs, meditations and just fun stuff I’ve enjoyed in the short time I’ve been a reader. So glad I found Sunflower Seeds a couple of years ago. I look forward to starting each week with you. May God bless you to do many, many more Sunflower Seed blogs.
I so enjoy your blog. Thank you for persevering for 13 years.
Hey Melanie, thank you for your blogs…enjoy your blogs,,,i made a retreat with you in Fremont Ohio,,Our Lay Of the Pines…all was good.
Happy 13th Anniversary! I am the grateful for your insights into everyday spirituality. I look forward to Monday’s.
Have a wonderful week.
Patricia
I met you at Holy Angels church and from the first encounter with you I felt I found a friend. Over the years I have read most of your books and each of them has something that speaks to me. I look forward to your blog and hope to read many more. God love and bless you. Cheryl
I am very thankful that you started this Blog. I became familiar with your name when I would read the Living Faith daily prayers. I find your words very comforting, inspiring and helpful in my life. Congratulations on all your accomplishments!
Thank you!
Congratulations Melannie on your blog anniversary. I’m so glad my sister Margaret told me about it and encouraged me to check it out. I look forward to reading it every Monday (sometimes like today, not on Monday 😂). You’ve been a special person in my life since I was a little
girl and more so as we have grown up. I love your books and have several favorites. To read your words of encouragement and spiritual insight is something new to ponder every week. Thank you for sharing your gifts with all of us.
So looking forward to reading your new book. Loved the video this week too. Love you and God bless you.
Congratulations! Thanks for the inspiring words. I faithfully read and pray with them.
Maureen Crosby,SSD
All I think of adding is EVERYTHING speaks! Ditto to all the responses!
Please enter my name in the raffle. And, I am gifting myself SHE for my 76th birthday on March 19. I need her! Thank you, Melannie, for sharing yourself and your gifts.
On the 45th birthday of the light in my life — Daughter Kristin. Bless you!
Above
Your words and thoughts are always enjoyed Sister.
As always, thank you Sister Melanie. the Carrie Newcomer song is beautiful and appropriate for today.
Sr. Melannie, a friend told me about your blog a year ago. I signed up and I certainly look forward to it now. You might be surprised to learn that I sometimes use some of your writings with my students. After retirement, I started teaching English to adult immigrants and refugees. I am in my 15th year of this wonderful ministry. I want you to know that they just loved learning about the variety of octopuses and the videos that accompanied the information you put together for us last week. They also enjoyed the children signing in past blogs. We have a great time sharing about what you offer. I first met you when you came to New Hampshire at the request of our Baraka Center and I attended The Enrichment Day they offered several years ago. I love your books and I wish you the best of God’s blessings and I hope for many more blogs to come. Sr. Pauline Maurier, CSC
Thank you so much, Sister Melanie for your blogs, I look forward to every Mon. and reading them. They offer me inspiration for the week. God bless you.
Sister Raymond Marie
Your meditations are real spiritual food for my soul! Thank you so much for the time you put into it. Sharing your gift with me has been such a blessing. God bless you, Sr. Melanie
Thank you Sister Melanie! I have been a follower for only a year now but look forward to Mondays each week, not only for myself but also for those whom I serve. Happy 13th Anniversary! I would to be included in the raffle for your new book.
God bless you 💕
God bless you, Sister Melannie, as richly as you bless each of us each week. Monday morning’s “gift” from you gets me going for the week. After I read your message I copy and send it to several of my Notre Dame Sister friends, my siblings, and several special friends I have made over the years. Often I get a note back thanking for the message which “they needed that day!”
Sister, know that we readers all keep you in our prayers of gratitude for ALL the wonderful, inspiring thoughts over the years. May you be inspired for many years!
God’s special blessings to you….especially this coming Valentine’s Day!
Thanks for a lovely way to start my week.
Yours is the only blog I follow. I have several of your books – the first one I got was “Rummaging for God” which I bought at a church rummaged sale, how appropriate! I would love to win an autographed copy of your new book. If I don’t win one though, I’ll buy it. I look forward to your blog every Monday, and sometimes send them on to friends.
I felt a strong connection to the song you chose this week. It brought me back to my childhood when it spoke of “folding sheets like folding hands to pray as only laundry can”. Our priest stopped in one day when my mom, mother of 6, was ironing. She put the iron down, but the priest said the pile of laundry she was caring for was a testament to God’s love, and to please continue while they visited. God’s beauty is in our everyday life, just as the song says.
Thank you Sr Melannie for your wonderful blog – so inspirational. Congratulations on the 13th Anniversary.
I particularly love the video today “Holy as the Day is Spent”. God bless you!
Congratulations on your anniversary of 13 years. Always look forward to reading your blog.St. Therese A.
Sister Melanie,
Thank you for your inspiring, thoughtful, humorous and delightful blogs.
I have such happy memories of your presentation to the religious of the Archdiocese of San Francisco several years ago. I regularly use excerpts from Just Because and from In Steadfast Love with my leadership team. Always something to ponder.
Congratulations on your 13th anniversary.
Congratulations on 13 years of Sunflower Seeds, Melannie! May God continue to bless you with inspiration and wisdom to share with all of us.
Congratulations on your 13th anniversary of your blog. I look so forward to your blog every Monday morning. My sister-in- law,
Mary Cluley, shared it with me many years ago. I am another Mary Ann Cluley and we are married to brothers. I have never posted on your blog but I wanted to get my name in the raffle. Thank you for sending all of us blog readers such a beautiful Holy Moment from your heart every Monday morning. Mary Ann
You have inspires me for many years and seasons of life. Thank you and may God continue to
Bless you. I’m
I look forward to Mondays because I know I will be enriched and inspired, no matter the topic of the week’s blog. Thank you, Sr. Melannie I hope to be fortunate enough to attend one of your retreats.
Thank you Sr Melanie . I enjoy your blogs each week. They are always an inspiration to me.
I often send your blogs to share with my family and friends. Blessings and prayers for you.
Sr. Melannie,
Thank you so much for the gift of your everyday spirituality blogs. They are so down to earth and always inspiring.
May God bless you as you continue to spread His Word and His love.
Dearest Sister Melanie: Gosh, it’s so hard to believe 13 years have passed! I found your blog by “accident” years ago right after I retired. I followed for about 5 years and then I lost you somehow (computer problems). When I found you again, I never let go! There are so many things I could comment on, so only one which has struck me time and again. You always take the ordinary everyday and make it EXTRAORDINARY! Your choices for music and videos alike are so wonderful each week! I am so, so blessed by your posts as is everyone here! Congratulations, dear Sister. Thank you and blessings.
Michelle ❤️
Congratulations, Sister Melanie. I have greatly enjoyed Sunflower Seeds for many years. I believe I “discovered” you shortly after you started publishing. Thank you so much for your many inspiring and thought-provoking blogs. May God continue to bless you.
Thank you for answering “Send me”!
You truly bring us His grace and light!
And it’s wonderful to learn new stuff at my advanced age. Blessings!
Thank you for your insight and inspiring words! I heard you speak at St Michael’s Catholic Church in Canton, Ohio! All the women enjoyed our retreat and listening to you! We still talk about your day with us, even though I have moved to North Carolina! Blessings to you each and every day!
Really enjoyed this week’s hymn. I shared it with many pf my friends.
You are the gift all of us gratefully receive. God bless
I really love your ability to see God in things outside the Catholic Church!
Sister Melanie, Congratulations on your 13th Anniversary! And for sharing your simplistic faith blogs showing us the beauty and wonder of God right before our eyes! My cousin, Sister Eileen, SND at Chardon, turned me on to your blog a few years ago. I have enjoyed it so much. A few of the blogs brought me to tears they were so beautiful. Thank you.
Sr. Melannie,
It is always such a treat to begin my week reading your interesting, educational, and spiritual blog! Thank you for such a special weekly gift!
Liz
I am a new subscriber to your wonderful blog. Thank you for making Monday so special.
Polly Benton
I’m trying to remember when I first started reading your blog or how I found it. But what attracted me first was the name – Sunflower Seeds – as sunflowers are my favorite flower. Then it was the fact that you are a nun – reminding me of the nuns that were my teachers who were holy and wise women, though I didn’t always appreciate that as much as I do now. Finally, you live in Ohio – same as me. Your articles have made me laugh and made me cry. You gave me hope during what seemed like dark days of Covid. I have shared your words and your song selections with my family and friends when they have especially touched me. I guess it is well past time that I thank you for what you have given to me.
Sister Melanie, you are a Rock Star! Thank you for all your words over the years.
Sr. Svoboda, your blog inspires my week. You have a gift to see things—like your blog about having cataract surgery and not realizing what you had been missing.
So many comments from so many loyal readers, and I am one. I love how you see God in everything and find everything can enhance our life in God.
Sue Ziegler
Thank you for writing your blog. I enjoy your insight and the videos/songs you include.
Congratulations on 13 years!! And thank you! 🙏
Congratulations on your 13th Anniversary. I’m a newcomer to your blog. I look forward to reading it every week. How I wish I had discovered it sooner. I also appreciate reading your reflections in Give Us This Day…you are always so real and so inspiring. Thank you for sharing your gifts with us. May our good God bless you.
Congratulations!
I have your Picking Strawberries Book and love it. Would love your Sunflower Seeds of Hope. Even I don’t win the raffle I will purchase it. 🙂
Love your blogs and I thank you for sharing your life and stories.
God Bless you always.
Thank YOU for sharing your thoughts/ other’s songs for all these 13 years…I’m a “newcomer” and certainly am inspired by what GOD gives you to share. I like sharing your site with others who have not read your works!!
Praying you continue for another 13 plus years….
Melannie, I was delighted many years ago to meet you at a retreat in Aston, PA. It was then that I began reading your blog. The title attracted me and I’m glad you are using it for your new book.
I just read “The Secret Life of Sunflowers” by Marta Molinar. If you haven’t read it, I think you would like it.
Gratitude for the years of spiritual nourishment you have provided and blessings to continue your blog for years to come!
Suzanne
Sister Melanie, Congratulations on your “BLOG” anniversary. Yours is the first I’ve ever read and was most impressed.I came upon it by accident and wish I would have found it sooner. I wrote to you a few years ago after reading your By the Way book which I have read and used many times for helpful ideas for my Communion Services. I’m also reading Hanging onto Hope and finding it most helpful. I love the way you bring humor into a serious subject. Keep up the good work and may God continue to bless your ministry.
Sister Monica
So blessed to have found your blog a few years ago. Not sure how it happened but so grateful it did. Thank you for all the wonderful “memories “. You have a wonderful gift and I am so grateful you’re sharing it with us. Looking forward to many more.
Thank you and God Bless.
Mary Ann
Congratulations on your 13th anniversary! I think I found you on my Sunflower Seeds about 12 years ago and I look at it every Monday morning! You are so gifted and I love your reflections on “Give Us This Day”. Thank you so much for all your words over the years. What a gift it was to speak to you in person at our retreat in Great Bend, Kansas last summer. I love you so much. Peace, dear one!
You make my day every Monday.
Thank you for the work you put into it for all of us. You are a treasure.
Congratulations on your 13th anniversary! I am always grateful for your inspiring blog each Monday. Thank you for sharing your gifts.
Thank you Sister for all that you do and your willingness to share your thoughts and insights with all of us! You have definitely found your calling by our good and gracious Lord and have answered Him. Continued blessings to you and your ministry!
I love reading your blogs. My sister lives in Chardon and I hold many good memories of
visiting there and attending mass. God Bless you and hope you keep writing for many more years to come.
Hearty congratulations upon your rich years of blogging, Sister Melannie. I am so happy to catch those generously strewn sunflower seeds of your uplifting thoughts. Many more years of sowing to you! So great to know you up close and personal.
WOW! Just WOW! Sr Melannie!
THANK YOU for your wisdom and holy words throughout the years. You have and are a gift.
My mantra for today is:
As holy as a day is spent…
Blessings,
Renee
With gratitude, I thank you Sr. Melannie. You help me to know Jesus better and be a better person.
Bless you, good health and congratulations.
Sr. Melanie:
I have so enjoyed your blog for many years! I am inspired and challenged by all your writings. Bless you for these. Congratulations on your 13 years as a blogger! It is something my daughter tells me I should do, but have never started it. I am very spritual, have a deep faith in God and Jesus (my best friend since I was 10). I am now 72 and take each day as it comes and what enfolds in it. I am very limited because of my scoliosis, but I manage to get done all I can in one day. I’m never in a rush. Thank you for the inspiration, writings and meaning you have added to my life. Love and blessings, Barbara Donahue
I am truly grateful and thankful for your inspiring, weekly blog posts. I pray for your health, happiness and endeavors in your faith-filled life.
May God bless you, always.
Gratefully yours,
Asteria
Congratulations Sr. Melanie on your 12th anniversary! That surely is a lot of ideas that you so generously shared with us. I look forward to your blog each week and love the way you mixed things up, some serious subjects while other times, some everyday occurrences that make us laugh, but always give us something to think about. Hope you have a wonderful day and look forward to reading your future posts. May God shower you with many blessings.🙏♥️
I came across the mention of your blog through a writing that you did for Give us This Day. What a terrific find! Hoping for many more years of your insights.
I’ve missed the 13 years but am getting on track with your blog and always enjoy it. The octopuses were one of my favorites. I could use 6 arms and 2 legs more each day. Maybe a chance at your book with help me catch up with the 13 years. Congratulations and thank you for sharing your delightful way of looking at life.
I especially like the songs/hymns that you share. It’s hard to find meaningful music. You seem to find some great songs that fit each blogs theme.
Congratulations on 13 years!
What a gift you have, Melanie and you share it so generously! I’ve appreciated your writings over the years. May God bless you abundantly! Sr. Julie Grote, osf/
I met you several years ago at the Benedictine Retreat House in Schuyler, NE. I keep wishing you would come back and do another retreat. I was drawn to your blog after meeting you. Plus, I love the title “Sunflower Seeds” since that has always been one of my favorite snacks! Many blessings to you as you continue to inspire us with your blog.
Thank you for your wonderful blogs. I share them with my friends and family!
I maybe a day late reading the weekly inspiring Sunflower Seed blog (had eye surgery yesterday so please excuse the typos vision is ok but not sharp up close 😉) but I am not a dollar short!!! I don’t usually post/comment on blogs due to some past experiences however this is an exception – thank you and congratulations Sister Melannie for 13 years of thoughtful, time to pause and relflect blogs. Appreciate your wonderful words of wisdom to start my week. Thank you
Congratulations on 13 years of your blog. I am just sorry I wasn’t there from the very beginning! Your blogs make me smile, think, reflect, laugh, share, and open my eyes to new ideas and thoughts. Thank you.
Since I found your blog, I’ve often thought of you as an angel sent to improve my life with your wisdom. God bless you.
Please enter my name, I would be honored to receive a copy of your new book. I read and quite often share your blog. I also love your reflections in Living Faith
Melannie, Congratulations for 13 years of prayerful reflections. Your words are HOLY.
The song reminded me of the story of Moses and the Burning Bush. There are Burning Bushes all around us. We just need to pay attention, as we do to see “holy” daily in our simple lives. Let us take off our shoes because we walk on holy ground.
Congratulations on your anniversary! I admire your courage to start something new and your persistence in writing regularly. Here’s to more writing and inspiration. To God all of the glory!
Thank you for your unique wisdom and uplifting blog. Congratulations on 13 years and many more to come!
Your blog has inspired and enlivened me.
Thank you.
Pat Branch
Congratulations on 13 years of your blog. I have enjoyed many of those years with you and missed about a year with the IT glitches. I look forward to your messages every week and would love to have a copy of your new book.
I enjoy reading your kind and thoughtful blog each week. Thanks for sharing and congratulations on your anniversary. Take care!
I’m so glad I discovered the blog after our Regina alum retreat. I have something thought provoking to read every week.
Sister Melannie, thank you for your blog, it is such a joy to read. I hope some day I will get to meet you. I am thrilled to be registered for the raffle. Have a beautiful week!
Thank’s a lot for your sharing every week.
God bless!
Thank you Sister Melannie!
Congratulations on 13 years!
I feel so blessed to be able to receive your weekly blog.
Inspirations upbound.
Melannie, just stopping by both to congratulate and thank you for these thirteen years of blogs. We go back farther than that—you were my first-ever English department chair when I was a lowly, know-nothing, first-year teacher and postulant. So grateful to be your fellow sister in our Congregation. And you don’t need to add my name for the raffle. 😊
Everyday Spirituality is where it is at. The simplest things: Suds in the dishpan can bring delight as the light hits the bubbles. Thank you for being the teacher of this.
Dear Sister, Congregation on your many years of blogging. I to have been catching your super blogs for many years. I started, as many other have mentioned, with Living Faith. Many times, I share your stories at our local nursing home, where I am a volunteer. Thank you for being such an inspiration to all of us. In life each of us is given a task, you fulfill yours so wonderfully! I will look forward to catching your blog, I hope, for many more years. And I will continue to pray for you and all the people whom you are touching with this ministry.
S. Melanie, You are such an inspiration. You have a way of making the ordinary HOLY. Thank you. Your words point to God! Thank you. Patricia
You are a true inspiration, Sister Melanie, and I often share your blogs with friends and prayer warriors, Catholic and non-Catholic. Thank you!
Happy Anniversary Sister!
I want to share an antidote that your song brought back to my memory.
My Mother told me that she once walked into her mothers house and found her ironing. She happened to say what are you doing? She answered “praying”. And so our mother always taught us that our work is prayer.
I often forget this but your beautiful song reminder me.
thanks so much!
Also I loved SHE!
Congratulations on this milestone! Doing some simple multiplication weekly blogs X thirteen years! Obviously Yes! You could write more than your first one. Thanks to Sr. Sue Wolf for her encouragment.
Congratulations on your anniversary! You have done so much for all your followers in the spiritual realm. Thank you!
Congratulations to you Sister, and many thanks for your wonderful writing. I have thought often of posting a comment, but was apprehensive about it . So, here goes…and if I win a book, it’s just the cherry on top. God bless you and your ministry. You have touched countless lives with humor, grace , wisdom and encouragement. Long may you write!
Congratulations
and thank you.
Thank you for your blog. My Mother and I have been reading it for several years now.
I personally have felt the spirit moving through, around and in your blog, speaking to me at times with such clarity it is startling!
I especially loved your blog on aging She! Congratulations and many thanks !!!
Happy Anniversary! I am a new subscriber to your blog. I came across it from a weekly email reflection I receive from Fr. Richard Jones, a friend and colleague of yours, from Pittsburgh, PA. He mentions your wonderful writings a lot. Thanks for your words, the beautiful simplicity, but powerful inspiration they bring to all of us on our spiritual journeys.
Sr. Melanie, your blog is a highlight of my week. Great that it arrives on a Monday to get the week started. I often share info from your blog with my SCC. Hopefully encouraging them to join.
Congratulations on 13 years!!! Such a wonderful milestone. I too am thankful for Sr Susan Wolfe for pursuing you to write the blog. You have helped me to increase my faith and trust in God. And to see our God in everything from a smile from a small child to the beautiful sunsets and “yes” even to octopi! Thank you, Sr Melannie!
I look forward to reading your new blog every Monday! I’ve been reading them for years and I still love each one! Thank you for the blessing that you are.
I am so very grateful that you share your gift of writing & it inspires me to slow down & take time to be in the moment.
You have such a wonderful gift and I am blessed to have found your blog and be inspired by your talented and insightful writings. You are such an inspiration! May God bless you and Happy Anniversary❣️
Congratulations on 13 years of sharing yourself through this blog! I am filled with gratitude for your blogs, books, and reflections in Living Faith. Your words breathe life and hope into my spirit. Thank you so very much for sharing your special gift with me for 13+ years.
Happy Valentine’s Day & Congratulations & Thank You on the Anniversary of your blog. I missed your posting for this week, until I checked your blog. I look forward to your weekly inspirations. Blessings & Peace!!!
Sister:
I had been sick and only getting to your Monday blog today. Each Monday I wait to read
Your words of wosdom. Your have blessed so many of us and helped us to come closer to God, Our Lord, Jesus and our Mother Mary. Thank you.
Thank you for your blog, Sr. Melannie and your special gift with words.
I would love to read your book.
I love your blog. I can make many connections through it. The song today is one example. Thank you!
We all need as my help as we can get with aging! Thanks Sr.Melannie for all your own insights as well as sharing some relevant resources. You have been faithful to your mission here of posting your blog since 2012; that’s longer than most people stick with anything. You have shown us how to deepen and grow on many levels, with a resounding appreciation for all of creation!
Bravo!
Melannie, Every Monday like clockwork, like morning meds. Thank you so much for 13 years of providing nourishment!
Joni
Thank you, dear friend, for your weekly blog. I loved this song today! Your words inspire, and you are a gift in my life!
Delores
I’m not sure when I joined, but I joined because I enjoyed your reflections in the Daily Living Catholic reflections book. I saw you had a blog, and was thrilled to find it. You are very insightful and wise, and I really appreciate you. Thanks for all you do.
Your weekly blogs are so meaningful and a blessing to me on life’s journey. I still remember with gratitude the retreat you directed at the Srs. of Charity in Cincinnati. It is wonderful to have met you in person!!
I enjoy your blog every week and really look forward to the songs that cap your message. The song this week was amazing. Thank you.
I’m so very grateful that I happened upon your reflections in Living Faith many years ago. Since that time I have savored your books and blog and have had the good fortune of seeing you in person twice. You have a positive yet challenging brand of spirituality that lifts me up and gives me hope. Thank you for sharing your special gift with me.
God bless you.
Congratulations on 13 years! I came on board a few years ago…wish I had discovered your blog sooner. I love the reflections but especially how you always offer a video or a song to go with it. That combination keeps me coming back every week🥰 Take care and may God bless you with many more years of inspiring all of us!
Thank you so much for your weekly reflections. They give me hope during these tumultuous times. I do not often respond but I look forward to your musings and to the musical accompaniments.
Sister Melanie I am one of the recent readers of your blog thanks to Maureen Vidmar O ‘Hearn forwarding to me. You were wonderful as my teacher at NDA …even though you were only a few years older than your students !!!!! And your blog is wonderful now! Thank you for sharing your appreciation and love of words. May God grant you many more years of blogging! Sending love and prayers.
Congratulations on 13 years of “Sunflower Seeds” and your book. Thank you for sharing your humor, wisdom and love of our beautiful faith. If I don’t win, I would be glad to purchase your new book.
Congratulations on 13 years of your blog. they are always informative and entertaining.
I look forward to your weekly blog and read it during my Adoration hour. I would love to receive your new book. Gos Bless and keep writing.
Sunflower Seeds is the most shared blog among my family and friends. Thanks for your insights, your sense of wonder, and your sense of of humor!
Such an amazing article!
Sister Melannie, SND our favorite Sister in freshman year..1968! Little did we know it was Sister Melanie’s first year teaching and …! Many of us gather and share how we continue to be touched by Compassion we learned from her! thank you,
Maureen Vidmar O’Hearn NDA72
my son now is a Catholic author and speaker: patrickrohearn.com
God is Good Always
I look forward to your blog writings. I joined because you are one of my favorite writers for Living Faith, daily Catholic devotions. Your writings speak to my heart. Congratulations on your anniversary. I’m blessed by your writings, attention to detail, and the music videos you find that compliment your blog so well. Thank you! Keep writing.
Congratulations on 13 years! Your blogs fill me with so much hope and joy each week. I am so thankful my Mom sent me your blog years ago. I enjoy sharing them with my friends to improve their days. Your insight is a true gift from God. You make my morning so much brighter. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing hope and joy each week with your readers! I look forward to fresh perspectives and a bit of humor, too. Here’s to many more years of writing and sharing!