Cece In The City

Category: blogs

  • Holiday Magic at Atlanta Botanical Garden: Our First Light Show Adventure!

    Hey readers! This holiday season, we finally got to experience the Atlanta Botanical Garden: Garden Lights—and let me tell you, it was nothing short of magical! Imagine Christmas lights that don’t just sparkle but come alive in a stunning show. It felt like stepping into a festive wonderland!

    I went with my family, and we lucked out with perfect weather. A night in the 60s meant we could stroll through the glowing garden without freezing—ideal for soaking in the beauty. While I skipped the hot chocolate (shocking, I know), we couldn’t resist the s’mores! They gave us cute little s’mores kits, and we roasted marshmallows over the fire. There’s something about gooey marshmallows under twinkling lights that makes the holidays even sweeter.

    After ten years in Atlanta, I can’t believe this was my first visit to Garden Lights! Watching the Christmas trees dance in lights and nature illuminated in breathtaking ways was a feast for the eyes. If you haven’t been yet, do yourself a favor—grab your loved ones and check it out before it’s over. Trust me, it’s a sight you’ll remember for seasons to come!

    Here’s to holiday cheer and creating beautiful memories, one light at a time! ✨

  • My Top 5 Destinations and Hidden Gems of 2024

    2024 has been nothing short of amazing, filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking destinations. As the year wraps up, I’m reflecting on my top 5 favorite spots that truly stood out:

    1. Panama 🇵🇦
    A dreamy escape out of the country, Panama was the perfect vacation to unwind and recharge. The warm vibes, beautiful scenery, and rich culture made it a trip to remember. Nothing beats the joy of relaxing in paradise!

    2. The Titanic Exhibit, Atlanta
    Stepping into history, this exhibit felt like a journey aboard the Titanic itself. It was fascinating to see the artifacts and immerse myself in such an iconic story. If you’re a history buff or just curious, this is a must-see experience!

    3. Atlanta Botanical Garden – Alice in Wonderland
    Wandering through the magical world of Alice in Wonderland was an absolute delight. The garden was stunning, and I was lucky to visit on a perfect day. The whimsical displays and vibrant blooms made it feel like stepping into a fairytale.

    4. Beat the Bomb, Atlanta
    What’s better than a fun challenge with the kids? This interactive game was a blast—literally! Although we didn’t “beat the bomb,” getting splattered with paint was hilarious and made for an unforgettable day.

    5. City Winery – Kevin Ross Live
    Seeing one of my favorite artists, Kevin Ross, perform live was everything I hoped for and more. His voice, energy, and stage presence were unmatched. City Winery’s intimate setting made it even more special—a night of great vibes and soulful music.

    These highlights made 2024 so special, and I can’t wait to explore even more gems in the coming year. Where should I go next? Let me know your recommendations!

  • Hello December, Goodbye November!

    Can you believe it? We’ve made it to the final chapter of 2024! December is here, and it’s about to be a whirlwind of holiday cheer, goal-setting, and endless adventures.

    This month is going to be a busy one, and I can’t wait to share it all with you through my blog. From festive vibes to wrapping up this year’s journey, there’s so much to look forward to. Have you started your holiday shopping yet? Are you ready for the magic of the season?

    As we count down the days to a brand-new year, let’s take a moment to reflect, plan, and dream big. Set those goals, embrace your awesomeness, and step into 2025 with purpose and positivity.

    Thank you for following along on this incredible journey. Your support means everything, and trust me, there’s so much more in store. Let’s finish the year strong—together!

    Stay tuned, and let’s make December unforgettable.

  • Soul Food Bliss at She Did That Soul Food Kitchen in Snellville, GA

    When a friend raved about She Did That Soul Food Kitchen in Snellville, GA, I knew I had to give it a try. I was craving turkey wings—something I hadn’t enjoyed in what felt like forever. Spoiler alert: they did not disappoint.

    The turkey wings were fall-off-the-bone tender, served atop a bed of perfectly seasoned rice that soaked up all the flavorful juices. For my sides, I went classic with creamy mac and cheese and sweet, candied yams. Every bite felt like a warm hug from the South, and by the time I finished, I was so full I had to save the rest for dinner.

    This spot is officially on my list for whenever I’m in the mood for comforting, home-cooked soul food. If you’re in the area, trust me—check them out. Your taste buds will thank you!

  • A Journey to Serenity: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Lilburn GA

    In the heart of Lilburn, GA, I discovered a sanctuary of spirituality and breathtaking artistry – the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. A mandir, a Hindu place of worship, offers a serene escape where peace and spirituality converge. This visit was not just about admiring architecture but about embracing a glimpse of a culture rich in tradition and devotion.

    Though photography wasn’t allowed inside, the experience was nothing short of enchanting. The mandir’s interior radiates tranquility, adorned with intricate carvings that reflect centuries of craftsmanship and faith. Fortunately, the exterior is equally mesmerizing, a true testament to architectural brilliance.

    Constructed from over 34,000 individually hand-carved pieces of Turkish limestone, Italian marble, and Indian pink sandstone, the mandir is a marvel of engineering and artistry. Each piece was meticulously carved in India and shipped to the U.S., coming together like a giant 3D puzzle to create this magnificent temple.

    Walking its grounds felt like stepping into a timeless work of art. The blend of cultures, the stories etched in every stone, and the sense of peace it exudes make it a must-see destination. If you’re ever in the area, take the time to visit this gem – it’s a humbling reminder of the beauty of diversity and the unity it fosters.

    Have you ever visited a mandir or a similar spiritual haven? Let me know about your experience! 💫

  • Happy Thanksgiving from Me to You! 🍁

    Hello, everyone!

    As we gather around to celebrate this season of gratitude, I just want to take a moment to say Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🍂 This time of year is all about giving thanks, sharing joy, and creating cherished memories with family and friends. It’s the perfect opportunity to savor good food, warm laughter, and the simple treasures of togetherness.

    I’m truly grateful for all of you who have been a part of my journey. Your support means the world, and I’m so thankful to share these moments and adventures with you.

    Wishing you a holiday filled with love, happiness, and plenty of deliciousness. Stay safe, treasure every moment, and let your heart be full.

    Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! 🧡

    With gratitude,
    Cece

  • LA Dreams: My Ultimate Adventure in the City of Stars

    Finally made it to Los Angeles! This city has been on my travel bucket list forever, and it did not disappoint. From iconic landmarks to bustling streets, my LA experience was a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and sunshine. Let’s dive into some of the unforgettable places I got to explore!

    Hollywood Walk of Fame: Kicking off with a classic! The Walk of Fame is every bit as vibrant and chaotic as I imagined—it’s a strip filled with stores, street performers, and nonstop hustle. Everyone’s out here grinding, selling, and entertaining, and I even spotted a few familiar names on those famous stars. The traffic, though? A true crawl, but hey, it gives you time to soak in the atmosphere!

    Santa Monica Pier: This spot was an absolute vibe. Between the beautiful beach views, live music, and that must-have funnel cake, I was in paradise. I even caught a street performer dancing to his own song about tacos—pure LA energy! As the sun set over the ocean, the entire place just glowed. It’s the kind of magic that makes you never want to leave.

    In-N-Out Burger: Of course, I had to make the pilgrimage! This West Coast legend definitely lives up to the hype, with those juicy burgers and the iconic simplicity of the menu. But full disclosure: I could’ve eaten two! I’ll be back for that double cheeseburger, for sure.

    Hollywood Sign: A total bucket-list moment! We didn’t get all the way up, but seeing it up close was surreal. There’s something about standing in front of that iconic sign, saying “Hollywood,” and realizing you’re actually there! And the city lights at night? Jaw-dropping.

    Long Beach: This spot is its own little paradise. We checked out the Yard House, saw the cruise ship, and wandered through a ton of cool shops. Live music, patio restaurants, and great bars make Long Beach a perfect chill-out spot—ideal for winding down after a day of sightseeing.

    These were my top five highlights, but honestly, LA is packed with so much to explore. The time zone difference kept me on my toes, but the entire experience was worth it. If you haven’t been to LA yet, you’re missing out on an adventure. It’s pricey, sure, but this city might just be the perfect fit for anyone chasing big dreams. Can’t wait to plan my return!

  • Cancun Thrills & New Friendships: An Unforgettable Adventure!

    A couple of years ago, I packed my bags and headed to Cancun with a few friends, and what an adventure it turned out to be! Cancun was full of unforgettable firsts, from conquering my fear on a zip line high above the treetops to diving into a chilly underground cave pool. That initial zip line ride was both terrifying and exhilarating—soaring over the trees and feeling the rush as we zipped across the jungle was an absolute thrill.

    Then came the ATVs! We roared down the trails, kicking up mud, and I’m so glad I wasn’t last in line because my ATV ran out of gas halfway through! It added a funny twist to an already wild ride.

    And let’s talk about the beach—clear, sparkling turquoise water and soft sand that just invites you to relax. Cancun’s beaches are truly next-level, with that crystal-clear, picture-perfect water that you can see straight through. We also hit up the club at our resort, where the nightlife was buzzing, and we ended up meeting some fantastic new friends from Canada. We still keep in touch, thanks to the magic of Facebook!

    Cancun was everything I could’ve asked for in a vacation and more. It was a place I’ll never forget, and while it’s checked off my bucket list, I’d love to explore more of Mexico next time. Here’s to more adventures and new friends along the way!

  • Kicking Off a New Tradition: Experiencing My First Atlanta United Game

    This past Saturday, I crossed something off my Atlanta bucket list: my first Atlanta United game! I’ve always enjoyed soccer — mostly from my time as a proud soccer mom cheering on my daughters from the sidelines — but watching it live? That’s a whole new thrill.

    Since I won free tickets to the game, I invited my cousin along for the adventure to go to the Atlanta United’s playoff game against Miami at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Walking into the stadium, surrounded by fans decked out in red, black, and gold, I felt that electric energy that only live sports can deliver. The whole place was buzzing with excitement and, from the very start, you could tell everyone was there for one thing: to see our team win.

    The match was intense from kickoff. It was neck-and-neck at 1-1 for what felt like ages. With each pass, every shot, and every near-miss, the crowd’s anticipation grew. Then, just when we thought it might stay tied, Atlanta scored the winning goal! The stadium roared, and it was amazing to be right there, in the heart of it all, watching fans jump out of their seats and high-five strangers. What a way to celebrate our first game — ATL United winning it in the final stretch!

    After that experience, I can safely say I’m hooked. I’m ready to dive deeper into soccer, learn more about the team, and catch more games this season. Here are some snapshots of the night; I’m so glad I could experience it and cross this off my Atlanta list. Go ATL!

  • Pink Power: Celebrating Strength and Community for Breast Cancer Awareness

    October was a month of purpose, pink, and powerful connections! In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we joined forces with the incredible R.A.L.E.Y. nonprofit to celebrate resilience and raise awareness. Gathering at Guac Taco Studio, we turned up in pink, surrounded by amazing people ready to make a difference. The energy was contagious as we played games, laughed, and indulged in some of the best taco bowls in town.

    We bonded over rounds of “Heads Up,” celebrating life, strength, and each other. Days like these remind us of the importance of community and the beauty of standing together for a cause that impacts so many. Here’s to awareness, action, and all the warriors we stand with!