Cece In The City

Tag: blog

  • Laughter to Close the Weekend: A Night with Kountry Wayne

    Hey hey readers 💕

    Listen… when I say it was a BUSY last weekend, I mean nonstop! But what better way to wrap it up than with laughter?

    Sunday night, I pulled up with my cousin to see Kountry Wayne at the Atlanta Comedy Theater — and let me tell you, it was the perfect ending.

    First off, my friend Jordan was hosting, and for YEARS I’ve been saying, “I’m coming to one of your events!” Well… this time, I actually showed up. And I’m so glad I did. He was hilarious — natural on the mic, great timing, and the crowd was rocking with him. There’s something special about seeing your people in their element. Proud friend moment for sure.

    Now Wayne? Whew. He had some NEW jokes in the rotation, and the room was weak. If you know his style, you know he pulls from real life — relationships, family, everyday situations — and somehow flips it into comedy gold. The place was packed, full house on a Sunday night! That tells you everything.

    I was low-key hoping to grab a signed copy of his book while I was there (you know I love supporting authors too!), but he didn’t have any copies on hand. Next time though — I’m manifesting it!

    And of course, Atlanta stays connecting the dots because I also ran into my friend D Rob. It had been a minute since I’d seen him, so that was a nice surprise. Love when a night out turns into mini reunions.

    Now let me be real — Atlanta Comedy Theater is a little tight in there. Seats close, cozy vibes, shoulder-to-shoulder energy. But honestly? That’s part of the charm. Comedy has deep roots in intimate spaces like that — small stages where big personalities are born. When the room is full and the laughter is loud, it feels electric.

    Fun times with my cousin. Good vibes. Big laughs. And a reminder that sometimes the best therapy is simply getting out and enjoying the moment.

    Busy weekend… but ended the right way. 💛

  • Cece in the City: Bites, Vibes & Atlanta Nights

    Hey hey readers 💕

    Cece been in the city for real last weekend — outside, exploring, tasting, and just soaking up Atlanta energy.

    One of my stops? Trying out Minero over at Ponce City Market.

    Now if you know anything about Ponce City Market, you know it’s more than just a food hall. The building itself dates back to 1926 when it was originally a Sears, Roebuck & Co. distribution center. Today, it’s one of Atlanta’s most vibrant gathering spots — a mix of history, culture, food, and community all under one roof. I love places that carry stories in their walls.

    At Minero, we grabbed some tacos — they were cool, solid, nothing too over-the-top but a nice vibe. We also tried the crab dip… and baby, it had a little kick to it! A bit spicy for me, but if you like heat, you would probably enjoy it. What I did love? The outdoor seating. Covered patio, heaters going, still able to enjoy the city air without freezing. That’s an Atlanta winter win.

    And because balance is key… we made another stop.

    You already know I had to slide by Sublime Doughnuts. If you know me, you KNOW red velvet has my heart. So yes, I grabbed a red velvet doughnut — soft, sweet, and exactly what I needed. Sometimes it’s the simple treats that make the moment.

    Last weekend wasn’t about anything major or glamorous. It was about being present. Trying new spots. Revisiting favorites. Sitting outside under heaters. Laughing. Tasting. Living.

    Cece in the City is really about experiencing Atlanta — the history, the flavors, the culture — one weekend at a time.

    Great moments. Great vibes. Great times. 💕

  • Proud Auntie Moments 💕 Cheer Competition Recap

    Hey hey readers 💕

    Whew — what a BUSY weekend… but the best kind of busy. The kind filled with family, legacy, hard work, and proud moments you’ll never forget.

    My DC family was in town because my niece is on not one, but TWO cheer teams — and they were competing right here in Atlanta at the iconic Georgia World Congress Center.

    Now let me tell you — that place is MASSIVE. Opened in 1976 and known as one of the largest convention centers in the country, it has hosted everything from championship games to international expos. Walking through there felt historic. I promise you I hit well over 10,000 steps — probably closer to 15k! My legs knew I was supporting an athlete this weekend. 😂

    But before the big competition, we kicked things off Saturday with good vibes and good food at Ponce City Market. If you know Atlanta, you know Ponce is a whole experience — built from the historic Sears building, it’s now one of the city’s cultural hot spots. Food, energy, family laughs — the perfect pre-game moment.

    While there, I also got to celebrate my friend DJ Silver on his 2-year anniversary of Vinyl Fiends ATL. So proud of you! Supporting entrepreneurs building culture through vinyl is always a vibe. And yes — I also ran into DJ Feelx. Atlanta stays connecting the dots!

    Then came Sunday — competition day.

    Y’all… watching these cheer squads take that floor was BIG. Bright lights. Judges locked in. Teams from everywhere. The discipline, the focus, the teamwork — it was powerful to witness.

    My niece performed with BOTH teams. That alone is impressive. On her second team, she twisted her ankle — and my heart dropped. But let me tell you about resilience. She pushed through and finished strong. That’s character. That’s heart.

    And here’s the proud auntie moment…

    Her first team took FIRST PLACE. 🏆

    Do you know how major that is? First place at a competition in a venue that size? That jacket she received wasn’t just fabric — it represented hours of practice, sore muscles, teamwork, early mornings, and dedication. She earned that.

    What made it even sweeter? Another cousin from DC was there competing on a different team, and I got to see her and her mom — family I haven’t seen in years. That right there was a blessing within the blessing.

    Seeing my niece in action, seeing family reconnect, seeing young athletes give it their all under the watchful eyes of judges — it was inspiring. Cheer is more than pom-poms and smiles. It’s strength. It’s trust. It’s timing. It’s legacy in motion.

    So proud of you, lady. Praying for a speedy ankle recovery. Keep shining. Keep working. Keep flying.

    Weekends like this remind me — family, hard work, and showing up for the people you love… that’s what it’s all about.

    Proud auntie forever 💕

  • Cece in the City at MJ The Musical: A Night at the Fox Theatre

    Nobody Can Play MJ… But Baby, They Did That! 🎤✨

    Last weekend, I had a whole Billie Jean moment — and it happened right in the heart of Atlanta at the legendary Fox Theatre.

    Now let me be honest.

    When my friend Michelle said, “Let’s go see the Michael Jackson Broadway show,” I was like…
    Ma’am.

    Nobody. And I mean nobody… can play MJ.

    Or so I thought.

    The King of Pop — The Legacy 👑

    Before we even get into the show, let’s talk history for a second.

    Michael Jackson isn’t just an artist — he’s a global icon. From The Jackson 5 days singing “I Want You Back” to breaking racial barriers on MTV with Thriller, MJ literally changed the music industry.

    • 13 Grammy Awards
    • Over 400 million records sold
    • The best-selling album of all time (Thriller)
    • Dance moves that still shut down weddings, family reunions, and TikTok

    The moonwalk alone? Cultural reset.

    So walking into this Broadway production, I had high expectations. You can’t play with MJ’s legacy.

    The Fox Theatre Vibes ✨

    Let’s talk about the venue for a second.

    If you’ve never been to the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, baby — you are missing out. Built in 1929, this historic landmark is giving Arabian palace meets old Hollywood glam. The ceiling looks like a starry night sky. It’s dramatic. It’s magical. It’s a whole experience before the curtain even rises.

    And when those lights dimmed? Whew.

    Okay… The Cast Ate 👏🏾

    I’ll say it.

    They. Did. That.

    From the vocals to the choreography to the mannerisms — the cast captured MJ’s spirit without trying to be a cheap imitation. It felt respectful. It felt powerful. It felt nostalgic.

    The energy? Electric.
    The dancing? Sharp.
    The storytelling? Emotional.

    There were moments I caught myself smiling like, “Okayyyyy, I see you!”

    And the audience was into it. You could feel generations in the room — people who grew up on MJ, and people discovering him in a whole new way.

    The Movie Is Coming 👀🎬

    Now listen… after seeing this show, I am extra ready for the Michael Jackson movie dropping in April. If Broadway can bring this level of excellence, I already know the film is going to be a moment.

    We will definitely be discussing that when it drops. You already know.

    Shoutout to Michelle 💕

    Let me shout out my girl Michelle for making this happen.

    Great vibes. Great company. Great memories.

    That’s what I love most about experiences like this — it’s not just the show. It’s who you share it with.

    That’s what Cece in the City is about.
    Experiences. Energy. Enjoying the moment.

    Final Thoughts 🎤✨

    If MJ the Musical comes to your city — GO.

    If you’ve never been to the Fox Theatre — GO.

    If your friend invites you somewhere and you’re unsure — sometimes just say yes.

    Because clearly… I was wrong.

    Somebody can’t be Michael Jackson.

    But they can absolutely honor him in a way that makes you stand up and clap.

    And baby… we clapped.

  • 📚 Cece’s Wednesday Book Highlight: Gucci Mane – The Autobiography of Gucci Mane: Episodes

    Happy Wednesday, y’all! You already know what that means — it’s time for another Cece Book Highlight as I continue my 52 Books in 52 Weeks Challenge. One book a week. Growth, discipline, and expanding my mind all 2026 long. Let’s get into this week’s read.

    This week I’m highlighting Gucci Mane’s newest book, The Autobiography of Gucci Mane: Episodes — and let me tell you, it was a good one.

    Now, if you’ve been rocking with my reading journey, you know I read his first book, The Autobiography of Gucci Mane. That book gave us the raw, unfiltered foundation — his upbringing in Alabama and Atlanta, the trap music movement, the rise to fame, the legal troubles, and the hard truths that shaped him. It was honest. It was gritty. It was necessary.

    Reading that first book is actually what made me want to pick up Episodes.

    https://amzn.to/49XQmIv

    This new book dives deeper into the different phases of his life — almost like chapters of transformation. It doesn’t just focus on the music. It focuses on the man. The mindset shifts. The battles. The consequences. The growth.

    One thing that really stood out to me is how openly mental health is addressed. And let’s be real — mental health is real. Especially in communities where it hasn’t always been talked about openly. Seeing someone with his level of fame acknowledge struggles, accountability, and change shows growth. And growth deserves recognition.

    I also loved seeing the role of his wife in this chapter of his life. Having someone who doesn’t give up on you, who supports your betterment, and stands beside you while you rebuild — that’s powerful. It adds a layer of maturity and partnership that we don’t always see highlighted in celebrity stories.

    From trap house beginnings to bestselling author, Gucci Mane’s story is truly one of reinvention. Atlanta history, hip-hop culture, personal struggle, redemption — it’s all there.

    I’m giving Episodes a solid 4 out of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.

    If you’re a fan of hip-hop, personal growth stories, or real-life transformation journeys, I definitely recommend reading it. Actually — read both books. Start with the autobiography, then move into Episodes to really see the evolution.

    That’s it for this week’s highlight! One book down, many more to go on this 52-book journey.

    See you next Wednesday for another read 💛📖

  • A Little Ice, A Lot of Reflection & Cirque du Soleil Magic

    Happy Sunday, everyone!

    Whew—winter tried it this week. We got a little ice down here, but nothing too wild. Our friends & family up north got the real deal with snow, so if that’s you, stay safe, stay warm, and stay bundled 🧣❄️. Honestly, this kind of weather gives permission to slow down. It’s the perfect season for movie marathons, watching the game, cracking open a good book, and actually resting. And let’s be real—some of us need that pause.

    Now let’s jump into Cece on the Scene 🎬

    I finally watched Divorce in the Black, starring Meagan Good and Cory Hardrict. Yes, I know—it’s been out for a minute, but better late than never. I’ll give it a solid 3 out of 5. The movie hit some real, heavy truths. I hate seeing women go through so much—especially good women who are giving love, loyalty, and faith, only to be torn down physically, emotionally, and spiritually. As women, we carry a lot. Too often we settle, try to fix, and pour ourselves into situations that aren’t good for us, all in the name of what we call love. Whew. If you’ve seen it—or plan to—tell me what you think.

    Now, let’s talk adventure 🎪✨

    This week I had the chance to experience Cirque du Soleil: LUZIA, and wow. Just wow. LUZIA is a dreamlike journey through an imaginary Mexico, inspired by its culture, colors, and history. The visuals were stunning, the performances were unreal, and the use of water throughout the show? Absolutely magical. Cirque du Soleil has been around since the 1980s, known for blending circus arts with storytelling—and LUZIA truly lives up to that legacy. If you’ve never been, put this on your must-see list. Trust me.

    Also, a very special birthday shoutout to my stepmom 🎉💕
    Hope your day was filled with love, laughter, and all your favorite things.

    And you already know—I love my Thank You letters 💌


    This week, my gratitude goes to Miri Ben-Ari, who continues to inspire through her powerful violin and fearless creativity. She proves that music has no limits and that women can redefine any space they walk into.

    Another huge thank you goes to Cathy Hughes, a true trailblazer who opened doors for women in radio, amplified our voices, and created opportunities that changed the industry. Because of her, so many women were seen, heard, and empowered.

    As always, stay tuned and keep rocking with Cece in the City—where culture, creativity, and community always meet 💫🌆

  • Sunday Reflections with Cece in the City ✨

    Hey hey everyone! Hope you had an amazing week. It’s Sunday — that sweet spot where we slow down, reset, and get our minds ready for a new week ahead. So let’s jump right into this week’s Cece in the City recap because it was full of celebration, history, new experiences, books, and inspiration.

    🎉 Birthday Love

    First things first — I have to shout out my oldest daughter and wish her a happy happy birthday! 🥳 I am beyond proud of the woman she’s become. She’s beautiful inside and out, and watching her grow has truly been one of my greatest joys. Mommy loves you endlessly 💕.

    ⚔️ Stepping Back in Time: Medieval Times – Lawrenceville, GA

    Next stop — Medieval Times in Lawrenceville, GA. I haven’t been in years, but let me tell you, it was still a good time! The show was entertaining, the food was surprisingly good, and the whole experience really takes you back in time.

    A little history moment: Medieval Times is inspired by 11th-century Europe, complete with knights, tournaments, and royal courts. No forks, cheering for your knight, and dramatic sword fights — it’s part dinner, part history lesson, and all fun. If you’ve never been, definitely put it on your list.

    ☎️ Hidden Gem Vibes: Red Phone Booth – Atlanta

    Now let’s talk about something very different — Red Phone Booth in Atlanta. This spot was such a vibe! It’s a chill lounge with a pool table and bar, but here’s the twist… you need a secret code to get in 👀.

    That alone made the experience fun. I love trying new things, and this was the perfect place to relax and enjoy time with friends and family. Definitely one of those “Atlanta hidden gems.”

    📚 Cece’s Book Corner

    You already know it’s not a Cece blog without a book moment. This week’s read was A Little Bit of Karma by ReShonda Tate Billingsley — and whew, it was a different kind of read.

    This book dives into:

    • Communication (or lack of it) in relationships
    • Love and life’s unexpected turns
    • Being in the wrong place at the wrong time
    • How mistakes and silence can change everything

    It’s full of drama and definitely makes you think. If you enjoy stories that reflect real-life situations, make sure to check it out:

    👉 https://amzn.to/3YC9JAn

    🎬 Cece On the Scenes

    I don’t watch a lot of series, but sometimes you need a break from books — so I watched His and Hers.

    Let me say… 4 out of 5 ⭐
    Great acting, twists and turns, and one of those shows that keeps you guessing. If you’re looking for something suspenseful and well done, this is a must-watch.

    ✍🏽 Inspired by Powerful Women

    As I continue my own writing journey, I have to pause and give thanks to women who motivate and inspire me.

    • Oprah Winfrey — magazines, interviews, book clubs… she does it all. I have a magazine, a book club, and I love interviewing people, so seeing her journey reminds me that mine can grow just as big.
    • Angie Thomas — author of The Hate U Give and On the Come Up. Powerful storytelling that not only became bestselling books but impactful movies. Her work opens eyes, sparks conversations, and inspires change. Truly an amazing author — definitely check her books out if you haven’t already.

    Until next time…
    Stay tuned, stay inspired, and keep exploring with Cece in the City 💫

  • Midweek Reflections, Reviews & Celebrations

    Happy Wednesday, friends — we’ve officially made it to the halfway point of the week! 🎉

    January has already been full of celebrations — I don’t know about you, but it feels like Capricorn season came in strong this year. Capricorns have always been known as the “builders” of the zodiac — grounded, determined, and hardworking — so maybe that’s why the month already feels busy and full of momentum.

    And since Wednesdays are often called “hump day,” let’s add a little mid-week joy with books, movies, food, and a few birthday shout-outs from Cece in the City.

    📚 Cece’s Book Corner

    I Found You — Lisa Jewell

    Let me tell you — this one pulled me in fast.

    I finished I Found You in just two days because every chapter felt like another twist I had to uncover. Lisa Jewell has a way of peeling back layers slowly, reminding us that one choice can ripple through many lives and change everything.

    It’s suspenseful, emotional, and full of “wait… WHAT just happened?” moments.
    If you love stories with mystery, secrets, and characters you keep thinking about afterward — add this one to your reading list 👀

    Check it out here: https://amzn.to/4psyhqi

    Fun fact: psychological suspense as a genre really took off in the late 20th century — and authors like Lisa Jewell have carried that legacy by blending mystery with deep emotional storytelling. That’s probably why her books feel real… even when they’re chilling.

    🎬 Cece On The Scenes

    Finding Joy — A Tyler Perry Film

    Sometimes “finding joy” isn’t about laughter… it’s about facing what hurt you and choosing peace anyway.

    This film has those classic Tyler Perry layers — faith, family, healing, and personal growth. It’s reflective, emotional, and definitely one of those movies that makes you think about your own journey.

    Streaming now on Prime Video.

    My rating? 3 out of 5 —
    There were a few moments where I was like… “Okay now, really?” 🤦🏽‍♀️😂

    But it still delivers a meaningful message, so check it out if you’re in a reflective mood.

    A little history note: Tyler Perry built his film legacy right here in Georgia — turning an old military base into one of the largest film studios in the country. Atlanta really became a powerhouse in entertainment because of creators like him.

    🎉 Birthday Love & Gratitude

    This week was full of special birthdays, and I want to send some love:

    💙 Happy Birthday to my Uncle — he’s been going through a lot lately, so please keep him in your prayers as he continues to heal and grow stronger.

    🤍 Happy Heavenly Birthday to my Aunt — forever loved, forever missed.

    🎂 Happy Birthday to Ms. Juicy (Baby) — my long-time friend, my talking-trash buddy, and someone who can always make me laugh.

    🌄 And Happy Birthday to Anika — from mountains to trails to unforgettable adventures, thank you for all the memories we’ve shared.

    Each of them holds a special place in my heart — and I hope their birthdays were the best one yet.

    Birthdays have always been more than just another year — in many cultures, they’re seen as milestones of wisdom, growth, and celebration of life’s journey… and I love honoring that.

    🍽️ Cece Eats — Foodie Stop of the Week

    This week I stopped by Trend Urban Café in Stone Mountain — and listen… that Salmon Special with rice was EVERYTHING. 😋

    Big portions, great flavor, and the best part — they offer both vegan and non-vegan options, so everyone can enjoy something.

    If you’ve never been, add it to your must-try list — definitely a local gem worth visiting.

    That’s my mid-week update ✨
    I’ll be back on Sunday with more adventures, food finds, books, and Cece on the Scenes moments.

    Stay tuned — and thanks for rolling through life with me here at Cece in the City 💛

  • Trying New Things — Old Favorites, New Adventures

    Hey everyone — hope you’re having an amazing day! I’m loving that the weather is creeping back into the 60s and 70s this week. It feels like the perfect time to step into something new… even if the “new” is something that’s been around forever for everyone else but me 😄

    This year is all about trying new things, revisiting classics, and exploring places I’ve somehow skipped over — and whew, I finally checked one off the list…

    🟠 My First Trip to Hooters — with a Little History

    So after all these years, I finally went to Hooters.

    For the longest time, my thoughts were pretty simple: “It’s a sports bar… with women… and hooters.” 😂

    But I decided to give it a try — and honestly, it wasn’t bad at all. Lots of TVs, lively energy, and yes… the ladies didn’t really have “big hooters,” it’s more about the iconic uniform and brand style. My waitress even wrote her name on a napkin — old-school Hooters touch!

    I ordered tater tots and shrimp (which were just okay), and my daughter got a steak-and-cheese sub that she said was really good.

    ✨ A little Hooters history:
    Hooters first opened in the early 1980s and grew into one of the most recognizable sports-bar brands in the U.S. It became known for its wings, game-day atmosphere, and its signature “Hooters Girl” concept — which has been part of American pop-culture debates, nostalgia, and sports dining culture for decades.

    I’ve heard a lot of locations have been closing recently, so I’m actually glad I got to experience it at least once.

    🍕 Italian Pie — Big Slices & Throwback Vibes

    Next adventure this week: Italian Pie.

    I’d heard about the big pizza slices — so of course I had to try one. I went with sausage, and while the sausage looked a little funny 😂 it actually wasn’t bad at all. I also grabbed BBQ wings to go with

    it.

    ✨ A little history note:
    Italian Pie has roots in casual neighborhood-style pizza culture — places built around family recipes, oversized slices, and that classic “grab a slice and relax” feel that’s been part of American pizza dining since the mid-20th century.

    Have you tried either of these spots? I know a lot of you probably have — but hey, they’re new to me… and that’s what this year is all about!

    🎬 Cece On The Scenes — Watch of the Week: Eden

    This week’s watch was Eden — based on a true story.

    A couple leaves German society in 1929 and escapes to an uninhabited island, looking for paradise… but things begin to fall apart once others arrive.

    • Genre: Thriller / Based on Real Life
    • Year: 2025
    • Duration: 2hr 9m
    • Director: Ron Howard
    • Cast includes Jude Law, Ana de Armas, Vanessa Kirby & more

    I give it 3 out of 5 — very interesting perspective, but I personally could never imagine living on an island like that back then. Today’s islands? Totally different story 😅

    📚 **Book of the Week — South of the Buttonwood Tree

    by Heather Webber**

    First book I finished in 2026 — and the second book I’ve read by Heather Webber — and I’m loving her writing so far. Definitely a 4 out of 5 from me.

    ✨ A touch of story history + themes:
    The book blends Southern folklore, magical realism, and family secrets that stretch across generations. It reminds you how some secrets can cause pain — but also have a way of pulling people closer and helping them heal.

    Check it out here:
    https://amzn.to/3LplDKK

    💌 This Year’s Thank-You Tributes

    This year, I’m sending thank-you messages to women who inspire and motivate me.

    This week’s shout-outs went to:

    🌟 Michelle Obama
    Reading her books reminded me of her authenticity, strength, and ability to speak truth with grace — especially Becoming.

    🎉 My good friend DJ Ms. Eclectic — Happy Birthday!
    She’s been an incredible friend — inspiring, hardworking, supportive, and full of positive vibes and good energy.

    Grateful for women who pour into others without even realizing how impactful they are.

    Well — that’s it for now. This year I’ve got a long bucket list, lots of hidden gems to explore, and plenty of “new to me” experiences coming your way.

    Stay tuned — and keep traveling, tasting, learning, and living with Cece in The City 💛

  • New Year, New Chapters — Join the Journey With Cece

    Happy New Year, everyone! 🎉 Here’s to 2026 being your BEST and brightest year yet. Thank you so much for following my journey — I truly appreciate every one of you. Remember… you are amazing, capable, and deserving of all the good things coming your way. Now let’s jump into it!

    ✨ Cece On The Scenes

    🎬 Watch of the Week: In Your Dreams on Netflix
    It’s a fun, light-hearted kid-style movie — but honestly still a great watch! I’d give it a 4 out of 5. I really enjoyed it — check it out and tell me what you think!

    📚 Book of the Week: Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe by Heather Webber
    This one gets a 5 out of 5 from me — such a beautiful story about community, healing, and finding connection through life’s trials and past experiences. Definitely worth the read! Grab it here:
    https://amzn.to/49zyX8C — and let me know your thoughts!

    🕯️ Need a little uplifting + inspiration?
    Follow Candlelight Conversations with Cece on YouTube & Spotify:

    YouTube 👉 https://youtube.com/@candlelightconversation?si=Z_kAUxAmAVVTaxcS
    Spotify 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/5xRvifqSumeBJUbPwbqdro

    ✍🏽 My Poetry Book
    Never thought I’d be an author — but I did it and I’m SO proud of this one!
    If you’d like to support or check it out, here it is:
    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M 💕

    📖 Where It Begins — New Issue Coming Soon!
    We have a very special woman gracing the upcoming cover — releasing at the end of the month and I cannot WAIT to share it!

    If you missed the last issue, catch up here:
    https://issuu.com/cecewibnet/docs/november_2025_issue

    Here’s to more adventures, hidden gems, great reads, fun finds, and new experiences in 2026 🥂

    Stay tuned — Cece In The City is just getting started! 💛