Day 13: Themed Parties, Campfires & Route 66 Dreams

Day 27: Beastie Day & Best Friends | The Friends Who Become Family

Some friendships don't just last—they become family. In today's episode, I share the story behind "Beastie Day," a tradition that celebrates one of the most meaningful friendships in my life. Inspired by a beautiful love letter from today's sponsor, I'm reflecting on the people who walk beside us through every season—the friends who know our stories, cheer us on, and remind us that distance and time don't have to weaken genuine connection. If you've ever been blessed with a lifelong friend, I hope this episode reminds you just how precious those relationships really are. Today's Sponsor: Rebecca Conklin-Klieboemer. Thank you for supporting 10 Unedited Minutes with Marlena and helping keep these conversations going. ♥️ Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2613605/support]

Day 26: Seeing Yourself Through Someone Else's Eyes

Nine years ago, my friend Rebecca wrote me a letter that I've never forgotten. Today, I finally read it out loud—and let's just say there were a few tears along the way. In this episode, I reflect on what it feels like to see yourself through someone else's eyes, share the hilarious story behind Rebecca's infamous "cow tongue" comment, and talk about why the people we surround ourselves with can change the direction of our lives. I also share my first impressions of Empty Your Backpack by Sam Demma, a book that's reminding me how important it is to invest in relationships that encourage, challenge, and inspire us. Sometimes the greatest gift isn't advice...it's having someone who truly sees the best in you. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2613605/support]

Day 25: Some Rewards Take Years

Sometimes the best podcast topics aren't planned—they find you. Today begins with another beautiful letter from my dear friend Rebecca, whose words have been inspiring this special sponsored series. As I reflected on her message, I couldn't help but think about a conversation I had earlier today with a young couple looking for parenting advice. Funny how life works that way. A letter written years ago and a simple conversation today somehow found each other, leading me to think about what we leave behind, the people we shape, and how our perspective changes with time. This episode is about legacy, family, and one of the greatest blessings that often isn't fully understood until years later. I hope it gives you something to think about. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2613605/support]

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]