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.
I put up the Christmas tree on November 30th this year, couldn’t wait. Something about the way the air changed, the early dark, the heaviness I’d been carrying around like a second coat... I needed twinkle lights and garland now, not in two weeks, not after the rush of shopping or the wrapping of deadlines. I needed to believe I could manufacture cheer from muscle memory.
Read MoreFor many years, we’ve traveled for the Thanksgiving holiday and had the honor of being guests at my cousin’s table for the big event. When we arrive in Ohio, my family makes a complicated day look effortless. The turkey is perfect, as are the mashed potatoes. Gravy is carefully prepared, and there are always these great pecan rolls from a local bakery that we try to snatch before we actually sit down to eat. The table looks lovely, and it’s so special. Like I said, they make it look easy.
Read MoreWhat I have now isn’t the same kind of freedom I had in my twenties, but it’s a richer one, forged by love, loss, endurance, and a deeper knowing of what it costs to make space for yourself.
Read MoreThis summer was a celebration of unplugging and rediscovering life’s simple joys. From mornings by the ocean to starry nights in the Grand Canyon, stepping away from the noise revealed beauty in everyday moments. It’s a reminder to pause, disconnect, and savor the world’s quiet magic—and carry that gratitude back into daily life.
Read MoreTraveling as a family is both an art and an adventure, blending meticulous planning with the inevitable eye rolls from kids. From a rafting trip in the Grand Canyon to dreaming of London’s charm, these journeys are about more than destinations—they're about shared memories, new discoveries, and passing down a legacy of wanderlust, one itinerary at a time.
Read MoreThe Mother Load is a quiet, unseen weight carried by mothers like me, filled with mental lists, small gestures, and love. Every act reflects devotion and care, from packing lunches to late-night cuddle rituals. Amid the grind of daily life, these moments of connection remind us that the load, though heavy, is the ultimate gift of love.
Read MoreSharing my personal journey into 2024, guided by my Non-Negotiables: daily movement, mindful coffee, meditation, reading over screen time, and embracing the Joy of Missing Out. This year, I’m focusing on presence, simplicity, and creating a life that truly brings me joy.
Read MoreAmidst the frenzy, baking gingersnaps is a cherished tradition, infusing the air with the warmth of spices and memories. It's a moment to pause and savor the simple pleasures of sharing homemade treats with those we love, encapsulating the essence of holiday joy.
Read MoreFall whispers in with cooler air, pumpkin flavors, and the sweet anticipation of family gatherings. Celebrate the season where every leaf tells a story, and every moment is a chance to slow down and savor.
Read MoreIn a world quick to judge and quicker to comment, I learned the hard way about the power of pause. Sometimes, silence is the most fashionable statement we can make.
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