Day 23: When Gratitude Brings You Back to the People You Love

Day 24: Sometimes I Just Hit Record

Today's episode is a collection of real-life moments—from an unexpected visit with my granddaughter to preparing for surgery, growing my marketing business, and getting ready to welcome our new parish priest for dinner. Along the way, I share another beautiful love letter from Rebecca's 2017 project and tell a funny story about preparing every room in the house for a priestly blessing. Sometimes the best conversations are simply whatever is on your heart that day. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2613605/support]

Day 23: When Gratitude Brings You Back to the People You Love

Some memories arrive when you least expect them. Today I continue sharing another one of Rebecca Conklin Klieboemer's beautiful "love letters" from February 2017. This one was written to her sister, Melissa, and as I read it aloud, I realized something that had somehow escaped me all these years—we both have sisters named Melissa. That simple realization opened the door to memories of my own sister, who passed away after years of struggling with mental illness. I found myself remembering who she was before life became so difficult, wondering what she might have been like today, and feeling grateful for the time we did have together. I also share a simple moment from my weekend that reminded me how much life has changed. Floating peacefully in the pool, talking with God, and reflecting on His faithfulness, I realized just how far I've come from a season of constant stress and worry. Sometimes healing isn't loud. Sometimes it looks like quiet gratitude, peaceful moments, and trusting God with the things we can't control. Thank you for spending a few unedited minutes with me today. If this episode encourages you, please consider following the podcast, sharing it with a friend, or leaving a review. Your support means more than you know. ♥️ This episode is proudly sponsored by Rebecca Conklin Klieboemer, whose generosity helps keep 10 Unedited Minutes with Marlena on the air. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2613605/support]

Day 22: Be Kind...It Really Is That Simple

Some conversations aren't planned...they simply unfold. Today begins with another beautiful love letter from my dear friend Rebecca—a reminder of the incredible impact one person can have on another—before taking an unexpected turn through everyday life. From witnessing a frightening moment at the local pool, to an incredibly kind cashier at Meijer, to reflecting on social media, today's conversation is a reminder that every interaction matters. And because life always has a way of keeping things interesting, I also share the story of the tiny mouse that decided to move into our house overnight. If today's episode leaves you with one takeaway, let it be this: Kindness costs nothing...but it can mean everything to someone else. Thank you to Rebecca for sponsoring this special podcast series and believing in this little dream. Your friendship, encouragement, and unwavering belief in this podcast continue to inspire me every single day. As always, thank you for spending 10 unedited minutes with me. Until next time...choose kindness. ♥️ Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2613605/support]

Day 21: The Power of Being Kind (When the World Isn't)

Today started with smoky skies, a heartfelt love letter from my friend Rebecca, and an unexpected conversation with a cashier at Meijer that reminded me just how powerful simple kindness can be. In this episode, I share another one of Rebecca's beautiful February Love Letters before reflecting on the small moments that often make the biggest impact. In a world where anger, division, and negativity seem louder than ever, maybe the greatest thing we can do is intentionally choose kindness. Sometimes a smile... Sometimes a conversation... Sometimes simply slowing down long enough to truly see another person... Those moments matter more than we realize. If today's episode encourages you, I'd love for you to share it with someone who could use a reminder that kindness still has the power to change lives. ♥️

Day 20: You Don't Realize How Heavy It Is Until You Put It Down

One year after closing my business, I finally realized just how much weight I'd been carrying. Today's episode begins with another beautiful letter from Rebecca's "Love Letter Project"—this one written to her father during his recovery from heart surgery. It's a heartfelt reminder of how love is often found in ordinary moments and lifelong memories. From there, I reflect on something very personal. Yesterday marked one year since I publicly announced the closing of The Dough Hook Meat Market. Looking back over the past 365 days, I realized just how much has changed—not only in my life, but in me. Sometimes we carry burdens for so long that they begin to feel normal. We don't realize how heavy they are until we finally set them down. In this episode, I share what I've learned about letting go, finding peace, strengthening my faith, spending time with family, and discovering that some endings quietly make room for a better beginning. If you've ever walked away from something you poured your heart into, I hope this conversation reminds you that healing often comes one day—and one decision—at a time. ♥️