Written by Stacey Bess
Illustrated by Melissa Ricks

Planting More Than Pansies is a resonant story of love, repentance, and rebirth. Based on true experiences, this moving account reminds us that when parents plant well, their children can weather the severe storms of life and return to a safe harbor even if they stray for a season.
Planting More Than Pansies offers hope that children will return to their teachings, and reminds them of the magic of faith as it leads them there.
"During Stacey’s visit to Seton Hill University in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, in April to celebrate the 2016 Student Affiliate Dinner for Month of the Young Child, she shared the gifts of teaching with our education students including compassion, trust, mentorship and leadership, importance of service, and conquering diversity. Students attending from Seton Hill University; St. Vincent College; University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg; Carlow University; and Westmoreland County Community College; Pittsburgh Association for the Education of Young Children (PAEYC) members and community members were inspired by her message and her dedication to the profession of teaching. Most of all, Stacey shared how important it is to love our children from the top to the bottom. We are not just teachers to our students; we are so much more!" -Dr. Kathleen I. Harris, Associate Professor, Early Childhood Education, Seton Hill University
"Thank you so much for speaking at our annual WIC conference. Your keynote presentation was both inspirational and uplifting… You reminded us that we CAN make a difference." -Utah WIC Program
"We appreciate the assistance in booking Stacey Bess – Our 11th CHAIRity Friendraiser was successful and we reached our luncheon goal; approximately 340 guests were in attendance and Stacey’s keynote resonated with everyone in the room. We received great feedback from guests that her story was so lovely, her tone and delivery was easy to listen to and it aligned with Dallas Furniture Bank’s mission." -Dallas Furniture Bank