Heather Reid Writes

Heather is an essayist, editor, CMO, mommy, and wife seeking stillness while in a state
of nearly constant motion. She lives, walks, and eats in the greatest city in the world: Chicago.

In the Quiet Corners: A Reflection on Jimmy Carter

January 17, 2025 by Heather Reid in adulting, adultlife, celebrations, in memoriam, politics, pop culture

Jimmy Carter’s presidency was often dismissed, but his post-White House years defined his true legacy—one of service, humility, and quiet strength. From humanitarian work to teaching Sunday School, he proved that leadership isn’t measured by power but by purpose. In an age of loud, performative politics, Carter’s life is a reminder that goodness thrives in quiet acts of faith and service. His legacy offers a map—not of grand ambition, but of what truly matters.

The Many Hats of Motherhood

September 18, 2023 by Heather Reid in adultlife, family, guilt

In the ever-changing landscape of motherhood, I've discovered the power of adaptability, wearing numerous hats with pride and gratitude. From the initial discomfort of the new 'Mommy' hat to embracing the multifaceted roles life has thrown my way, each hat has shaped me, teaching me about versatility, growth, and the beauty of life's unpredictability.

Urban Legend

November 28, 2020 by Heather Reid in chicago, adultlife, family, food, home, in memoriam, memories, politics

My dad was a great storyteller. Even though he was a little shy with strangers, he loved to spin a good yarn from time to time with his family. His best tales were stories about Chicago. But my favorite story was how he came into his chili recipe.

The Best Worst Vacation

June 30, 2019 by Heather Reid in adulting, celebrations, family, holiday, in memoriam, memories, momlife

In my life I have been lucky to have the opportunity to travel around the world and across the country, but in my heart, none of them will ever come close to the vacations my family took when I was growing up.

Exceeds Expectations: A Tale of a Mom's Report Card

May 20, 2019 by Heather Reid in adulting, adultlife, education, family, kids, memories, work

Babies are not good at communication. Beyond malodorous clues, the new little person that I was suddenly responsible for was really terrible at telling me how things were going. For those of us who thrive on positive reinforcement, this was frustrating.

The Power of Purple Hair

January 24, 2019 by Heather Reid in adulting, adultlife, family, feminism

As my birthday approached, I thought about where I wanted to go in the next year of my life. What was I waiting for?

Everything Must Go

October 17, 2018 by Heather Reid in adulting, adultlife, home, memories, kids, momlife

Getting rid of your stuff is supposed to make you happier. Except when it doesn’t.

The Girl in the Picture

August 14, 2018 by Heather Reid in adultlife, education, memories

When you look at old pictures, what do you see? Is it perfection, or potential?

Teach Your Children Well

May 09, 2018 by Heather Reid in adulting, celebrations, chicago, kids, memories

I’ve had many great teachers in and out of classrooms, but when I stop to remember, a few come immediately to mind. Teachers who lifted me up, showed me how to break the rules, taught me to lead, and the woman who was my first teacher.

Fashion Unconscious

April 16, 2018 by Heather Reid in kids, memories, momlife, adulting

If clothes make the man, then I live with a rainbow dragon and a superhero ninja who are in firm opposition to the premise that socks come in matching pairs. I’m not sure what sort of men I’m raising, but they certainly are colorful.