Tag: blog life

  • ❄️ Rainy Days, Flurries, and Feel-Good Moments with Cece on the Scene

    Hey everyone! So, it’s one of those cozy days in Georgia — rainy, cold, and yes… we’ve already had a few flurries! 🥶 Looks like we’re in for a real winter this year. I’m hoping it treats us better than last time — because let’s just say, getting stuck overnight in my car during a snowstorm is an experience I’ll never forget. Lesson learned: always pack snacks, a blanket, and patience. 😂

    Now, let’s jump into this week’s Cece on the Scene!

    🎬 Movie Moment: Wild with Reese Witherspoon

    I finally watched Wild — yes, the one starring Academy Award winner Reese Witherspoon! I’ve been meaning to watch it for ages, so I went ahead and rented it on YouTube. Overall, it was a good watch — real, raw, and kind of made me think about life, peace, and what it means to find yourself.

    But let me tell you… walking across the world like that? Alone? With no real supplies? 😳 You have to be built different. Sleeping outside, finding food, no shower for days — whew, not for me! I love nature, but I’ll take my hikes in short doses and sleep in a cozy Airbnb, thank you very much. 😂

    Still, I admire the strength and spirit of anyone who can do that kind of journey. I’d give the movie a solid 3 out of 5, and of course, I love me some Reese Witherspoon.

    🎶 Big Congrats to Outkast!

    Huge shoutout to @Outkast for being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame! 🔥 You already know I had to swing by their mural and snap a pic — such a dope tribute to two Atlanta legends. Their music, their style, their legacy? Timeless. Congrats, @BigBoi and @Andre3000 — ATL forever! 🙌🏾

    🇺🇸 Honoring Our Veterans

    It’s Veterans Day, and I just want to send a heartfelt thank you to all the men and women who have served. Your courage and sacrifice do not go unnoticed. 💙


    ✈️ Next Stop on My 50-State Journey

    I’ve been dreaming about my next stop for the 50 States Journey, and South Carolina is calling my name! I’ve already been to Myrtle Beach, but for this chapter, I’m torn between Charleston, Columbia, or Greenville. Each city has its own charm — so what do y’all recommend? Drop your suggestions below!


    🕯️ Candlelight Conversations + Poetry Love

    The world feels heavy lately, so I’m sending love and prayers to everyone reading this. 💫 Remember to take care of your spirit — and if you need a moment of peace, check out Candlelight Conversations with Cece. It’s cozy, uplifting, and comes with journal prompts to help you reflect and breathe a little easier.

    https://youtube.com/@candlelightconversation?si=BObCUOzE-gEgUTqT

    And oh — can we take a moment? I still can’t believe I published my poetry book! 🥹 If you haven’t checked it out yet, I’d love your support. It means the world.

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    Until Next Time…

    The holidays are almost here, so get ready to cozy up with friends, family, and good food. Stay warm, stay grateful, and I’ll see you next time on Cece in the City — where every day is a new scene to explore. 💕

  • Cece in the City: A Date Night Under the Stars at Illuminarium Atlanta 🌌✨

    Looking for a unique Atlanta date night idea or a fun spot to hang out with friends and family? Let me put you on to one of the city’s hidden gems—Illuminarium Atlanta. This immersive experience takes you far beyond Peachtree Street and straight into the stars. 🚀

    I recently visited the Space experience at Illuminarium, and wow… it felt like stepping out of Atlanta and into another galaxy. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with your crew, a family-friendly adventure, or something romantic, this spot delivers. Personally, I think it’s the perfect cozy setting for a date night in Atlanta.

    The Red Carpet Arrival 🎥

    From the moment you walk in, you know you’re in for something special. They roll out the red carpet for photos, giving you that VIP feel before the show even begins. And you already know Cece in the City had to get a few snaps in (because if there’s no photo, did it even happen?).

    Boarding the Rocket 🚀

    Next, you enter a room that feels like you’re about to blast off into space. It’s cozy, dim, and sets the perfect mood. Whether you’re holding hands with bae or just soaking it all in solo, the anticipation builds.

    Immersed in the Galaxy 🌌

    Then—boom—you step into the main Illuminarium room, and suddenly you’re surrounded by stars, planets, and galaxies. The walls, floor, and ceiling transform into a breathtaking cosmic journey. The lights are soft and hypnotic, and the music matches the visuals perfectly.

    I found myself walking slowly, completely caught up in the moment, imagining what it would feel like to actually float through space. At one point, I looked down and honestly felt like I was standing on another planet. It’s magical, especially if you’ve got a big imagination.

    Why It’s Perfect for a Date Night 💕

    Here’s why I loved this for a date: the vibe is peaceful, romantic, and relaxing. You can have real conversations without distractions, all while being wrapped up in the beauty of the stars. It’s not your typical movie or dinner—it’s an experience that makes you feel like you’ve truly escaped.

    What’s Next at Illuminarium Atlanta 🎶

    I already can’t wait to go back. Up next? The Rolling Stones Illuminarium experience. If space was this breathtaking, I can only imagine how electric and legendary that show will be.

    Final Thoughts ✨

    So, if you’re searching for things to do in Atlanta, romantic date night ideas, or fun immersive experiences, add Illuminarium to your list. Trust me, this is one of Atlanta’s best-kept secrets—a true hidden gem in the city.

    Have you been yet? If not, go grab your tickets and prepare to be blown away.

    — Cece in the City, exploring Atlanta one adventure at a time 💕

  • Happy Sunday, Friends ✨

    It’s September — my favorite month (yes, my birthday month 🥳) — and I’m still riding the wave of excitement that comes with fresh beginnings and new vibes.

    Today, our Cece Book Club gathered to dive into These Tangled Vines. Let me just say, this book was so good — the kind that makes you pause and think about the lengths people go for love. 💕 A heartwarming yet tangled story of love, loss, and betrayal, it reminded me that love can be both healing and complicated. If you’re looking for a new read, check it out here: These Tangled Vines.

    A Throwback with a Twist 🎶🍹

    Guess what? Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre just dropped a new Gin & Juice! Talk about history coming back full circle. For those of us who remember vibing to Gin and Juice back in the day, this drink is nostalgia in a bottle. Now, it’s reimagined for a whole new generation. If you’re a drinker, you definitely want to check it out.

    And since it’s my birthday month, I’d love your support too — grab my poetry book on Amazon and celebrate with me: Get your copy here.

    Candlelight Conversations 🕯️💫

    We’re growing beautifully with Candlelight Conversations with Cece — a space for soul talk, reflection, and inspiration. You can tune in on:

    And because ambiance matters, here are some perfect candles to pair with your listening sessions:

    Cece on the Scene 🎬

    This weekend, I had a little movie marathon:

    • Escape Room (an oldie, but always makes you think twice about what you’d do in real life situations 👀).
    • Miracles from Heaven — such a heartfelt, true story that reminds us that miracles happen every day and God is always listening. 🙏

    Behind the Scenes with Where It Begins Magazine 🗞

    • Covers are now open for Sept–Dec — $500 secures your spot to tell your story in a BIG way. DM me to lock in your feature!
    • I’m also opening 50 spots for blog features (product/book reviews, highlights) for just $100. You’ll get featured on my blog and across socials. 🚀

    ✨ It’s September, it’s my birthday month, and it’s all about growth, storytelling, and celebrating love, creativity, and connection. Let’s make big moves together!

  • Breezy Bowl XX – Chris Brown Still Got It 🎤✨

    Yesterday, I had the chance to attend the Chris Brown Breezy Bowl XX Tour — and let me tell you, after 20 years in the game, he’s still one of the best entertainers out there. Chris has been one of my favorite singers and performers for years, and this was my second time seeing him live. When I say he puts on a show, he really puts on a show.

    From flying through the air, to hitting the dance floor with those signature moves, to performing over 50 songs, Chris left it all on the stage. The concert was long, but every minute was worth it. On top of that, he brought out Summer Walker and Bryson Tiller, which made the night even more unforgettable.

    I’m claiming and manifesting this now: since I’m back doing entertainment, one day I will meet him in person. 🙌🏽

    Gratitude & Early Birthday Vibes 🎂

    I have to give a huge shoutout to my friend who gifted me the tickets. It honestly felt like an early birthday gift (since my birthday is in September 🥳). The past couple of weeks have been stressful for me, and this concert was exactly what I needed — good vibes, great music, and a chance to escape for a night.

    Also, another shoutout to the friend who came with me. She’s truly like family, always there for me even last minute. We’ve shared years of good times and laughs, and this was just another memory to add to the list. I’m so thankful to have amazing friends who are really more like family in my life.

    The Experience 🎶

    I saw a lot of people online saying the lines were long and chaotic, but luckily for us, everything went smooth. No long waits. 🙌🏽 Now, food and drink prices? Definitely high. But thank goodness I ate before I went — so if you plan on going, take note!

    Another highlight from the Chris Brown concert — I finally got to meet my friend in person! We’ve been knowing and talking for years, and it was so awesome to finally connect face to face.

    Overall, the night was everything I needed and more. Chris Brown continues to prove why he’s a legend in the making.

    Shoutout to Chris for putting on a phenomenal show, and to all the fans heading to his second show in Atlanta today — y’all are in for a treat!

    Stay tuned for more adventures with Cece in the City

  • 🌸 Nature, New Bites & A Much-Needed Reset in Gainesville, GA 🌸

    Yesterday, I had one of those soul-soothing days that you don’t even realize you need until you’re deep in it. I packed up my thoughts, my neck fan (my summer BFF!), and hung out with a friend for a little escape to the Atlanta Botanical Garden – Gainesville.

    Now listen, don’t let the word “Gainesville” fool you. While it’s smaller than the bustling Atlanta location, it carries its own charm, character, and calm. Nestled in the heart of North Georgia, this garden is actually an extension of the original Atlanta Botanical Garden and opened in 2015. Fun fact: it was built on land once home to a grand estate, and today it’s a blooming retreat filled with curated trails, colorful floral displays, and all the serenity your spirit can handle.

    We got there early—before the sun had fully clocked in for the day. It was warm, high 80s, but not melt-into-the-ground hot, thank goodness. My trusty neck fan came through like always! As we wandered through rose-lined paths and beneath shady trees, I felt the stress I’d been carrying slowly fade into the breeze. There’s just something about being surrounded by nature, hearing the birds sing their morning songs, and exchanging good convo with a friend—it’s therapy without the co-pay.

    The people were so friendly too! Everyone seemed to be on the same wavelength—just out there soaking in the beauty, smiling, and vibing with the Earth. Pure peace.

    But you know me… the day wasn’t complete without a little foodie adventure. We ended up at a local gem called The Cream in Duluth —and babyyyy, let me tell you! I stepped way out of my comfort zone and tried octopus fritters. Yes, you read that right. OCTOPUS. And guess what? They were 🔥. Golden, crispy, and surprisingly delicious. The texture? Perfect. The flavor? On point. Sometimes, your taste buds just need a passport and a little courage!

    Moral of the story: Don’t let the name scare you—just taste it. You might surprise yourself.

    By the time I got home, I was worn out in the best way. Tired body, full heart. That little Gainesville getaway reminded me how healing nature, connection, and good food can be.

    If you’re ever in North Georgia, carve out a few hours for the Botanical Garden in Gainesville and end it with a bold food move. You won’t regret it. 💚