I hope this season fills your heart with peace, joy, and so much happiness. Today is a perfect reminder to slow down, breathe, and be thankful for where we are, what we’ve overcome, and what’s still on the way. 🙏✨
Now let’s slide over to Cece on the Scenes…
I got a chance to watch the Lisa Lisa documentary on Netflix. She was the first Latina artist to hit No. 1 on the R&B charts and the first Latina performer on Broadway with a major presence—truly a pioneer. I learned so much about her journey in the industry, her struggles, and her powerful fight through cancer. Sending all the prayers up for her continued healing and strength as she celebrates being cancer-free.
I’d give the documentary a 3 out of 5—informative, heartfelt, and a real reminder of how music shapes us. And yes… “I Wonder If I Take You Home” still sits pretty on my playlist today!
Before you go— Are you following me on YouTube and Spotify? That’s where all my adventures, stories, and behind-the-scenes magic live. Come join the journey:
2026 is peeking right around the corner— I hope you’re setting your intentions, mapping out your goals, preparing your heart, and making room for new blessings and new adventures.
Stay tuned… Cece in the City is just getting started. 🌆✨
Hey everyone! 🌿✨ This weekend I finally did something my soul had been begging for—getting out into nature. I didn’t care that it started off raining; I needed calm, peace, and fresh air. And guess what? The moment we pulled into Gibbs Garden, the sun literally came out like it was waiting on me. 😌☀️ Talk about divine timing!
🌸 Exploring Gibbs Garden: A Hidden Georgia Gem
I’ve been wanting to visit Gibbs Garden for the longest, and I’m so glad I finally made it. Even in the fall, when the season is shifting and things are calming down, the gardens were still stunning. Fall leaves were hanging on just for me—gold, fiery orange, soft browns and red… so beautiful.
Did you know Gibbs Garden sits on over 40 acres of beautifully landscaped land? Created by Jim Gibbs, a lifelong horticulturist, this place is one of the largest residential estate gardens in the country. Walking through feels like stepping into a living painting—water features, Japanese-style bridges, seasonal blooms, and winding paths that whisper “slow down.”
And trust me, I got my steps in! 😂
My friend and I enjoyed some great conversations while wandering through the trails. I also took some photos with my poetry book, and let me just say—the fall colors made that book POP. 🍂📖 If you haven’t grabbed a copy yet, this is your sign!
💧 Next Stop: Amicalola Falls — Beauty That Takes Your Breath Away
After leaving the gardens, we decided to keep the adventure going. We headed straight to Amicalola Falls, home to one of Georgia’s tallest waterfalls at 729 feet. The Cherokee name Amicalola means “tumbling waters,” and baby, that’s exactly what it is!
Now let me be honest… Did I walk all 425 steps to the top? Absolutely not! 😂 But we found the perfect viewpoint to see that waterfall in all its glory. And y’all… breathtaking. Truly the peace I didn’t know I needed.
We even checked out the cabins at the lodge, and they were so cozy. They had a journaling class going on, too! You know I love journaling—if only I had come earlier, I would’ve jumped right in. Imagine journaling while overlooking the mountains… pure therapy. 🧡🌄
🍔 Final Stop: Ball Ground Burger Bus — A Tasty Bite of History
All that exploring meant it was definitely time to eat, so we made our way to Ball Ground Burger Bus, one of the most unique restaurants in North Georgia. And yes… it’s literally a school bus you can eat on! 🚌✨
Here’s a fun bit of history:
The restaurant sits in the heart of historic downtown Ball Ground, a charming town dating back to the late 1800s. The town got its name because it was once a large Cherokee “ball ground,” where tribes played a traditional game similar to lacrosse. Over time, as the railroad expanded, Ball Ground became a small but lively stop full of shops and local flavor.
The famous school bus at the Burger Bus isn’t just decoration—it’s an actual restored school bus from the 1940s. Instead of letting it rust away, the owners turned it into a fun, nostalgic dining space that celebrates the town’s history of creativity and community.
So of course I had to try something fun. I ordered a pretzel bun chili dog with tots, and it definitely hit the spot. After eating, we explored the adorable downtown area, popping into local shops—including Frankfurt Doner & Meats, where my friend grabbed different sausages and I sampled a few (and yes, they were delicious!).
🌄 A Day My Soul Needed
After that, it was time to head home. Looking back, it was one of those days that felt perfectly aligned—nature, good food, great conversations, and new experiences. A day my mind, spirit, and creativity truly needed.
If you’ve never visited Gibbs Garden, Amicalola Falls, or the little town of Ball Ground, add them to your list. And trust me—you’re definitely going to want to come back in the spring when the flowers bloom!
Hey everyone! Finally, we’re getting some really nice weather this week, and it feels like the city is waking up from a long nap. There’s something so refreshing about stepping outside when the sun hits just right, the air has that crisp sparkle, and everything feels alive again. And you have to hear the best news—the Night Lights at the Botanical Garden are back!
If you’ve never been, let me paint you a picture: the garden transforms into a luminous wonderland, with sparkling lights reflecting off every leaf, pathway, and fountain. The displays are absolutely breathtaking—like walking through a dream where the trees themselves are dressed in glittering gowns. Did you know that botanical gardens have been around for centuries, originally created to study and showcase exotic plants from around the world? It’s amazing to think that while we stroll under these modern lights, gardens like these carry a long history of curiosity, learning, and beauty. Every turn has a new surprise, and I found myself stopping multiple times just to take it all in. My advice? Go when it’s just the right temperature— Not too cold, and the magic gets a little nipped by the wind, but just right, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world. 🌟
Speaking of stepping into new worlds, I just finished an incredible read: The Interruption of Everything by Terry McMillan. I’d give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. McMillan is a powerhouse in American literature, known for writing stories that celebrate women’s lives while highlighting the challenges we face. This novel tells the story of a woman juggling family, career, and personal growth—the kind of story that feels like it’s speaking directly to us as women. So often, we’re the ones holding everything together, sacrificing our dreams, and making sure everyone else is taken care of. And yet, sometimes it feels like our work goes unnoticed, our sacrifices unappreciated. McMillan’s story is a reminder that while we nurture and care for others, it’s just as important to nurture ourselves.
This book made me pause, reflect, and appreciate not only the work we do but the lives we lead. If you want a read that’s honest, relatable, and deeply moving, you can grab your copy 📖
Now, let’s shift gears to some Cece on the Scenes updates! I recently watched Frankenstein, and let me tell you—it was fantastic. I’d rate it a 4 out of 5. Did you know that Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein when she was just 18 years old? The story was inspired by a famous 1816 “ghost story challenge” she did while staying in Switzerland with Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron. The novel has endured for over 200 years because it taps into timeless questions about ambition, humanity, and what it means to create life. Watching this adaptation reminded me of why classic stories endure—the suspense, the drama, and the exploration of what it means to be human.
I highly recommend it if you’re looking for something engaging and thought-provoking to watch this week. 🎬
And of course, don’t forget about my own creative work! My poetry book is out now, and it’s perfect for cozy evenings, reflective moments, or even as a holiday gift for someone you love. If you haven’t picked up your copy yet, you can grab it here✨
Have you been keeping up with Candlelight Conversations with Cece? If not, you’re missing out! These sessions are all about slowing down, reflecting, and connecting with your inner thoughts. You can catch them on YouTube and Spotify, and I’ve also curated August & September playlists to match the themes of each conversation. They’re perfect for journaling, relaxing, or just creating a little calm in your day. Speaking of journaling, I’ve been posting daily journal writing prompts for all my journal lovers—don’t miss out on this little dose of inspiration every day! 🕯️
And now, as we slowly drift toward the holidays, I want to take a moment to reflect. This season is more than just decorations and presents—it’s about gratitude, giving, and truly appreciating the people around us. Fun fact: the tradition of giving thanks and celebrating during this season can be traced back to harvest festivals in Europe, long before modern Thanksgiving and Christmas traditions were formalized. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and recognize the abundance in our lives. What are your holiday plans this year? Are you planning cozy nights at home, festive gatherings, or maybe a quiet walk under twinkling lights like the ones at the Botanical Garden? Whatever you do, remember to give thanks, give love, and give back. This is the season to celebrate the little things, the people who matter, and the moments that make life feel magical.
So whether you’re catching the glow of the night lights, diving into a great book, watching a classic film, writing in your journal, or listening to Candlelight Conversations with Cece, make sure to pause, breathe, and savor these moments. Because in the end, it’s not just about what we do—it’s about what we feel, what we share, and how we connect.
Stay magical, stay inspired, and as always—see you on the scenes. 💖
I hope everyone’s doing amazing and staying cozy — can you believe this is the last week of October? 🕸️🍁 We’re about to step into 2026 before we know it! The weather’s officially giving boot season and sweater weather vibes, and I’m here for it.
Now, let’s jump into a little “Cece on the Scene” update — where movies, books, candles, and good vibes meet! ✨
🎬 Movie of the Week: “Alice” (2022)
So, I finally watched Alice starring Keke Palmer and Common — and wow, what a ride. It might be an older movie, but it’s new to me!
This 2022 thriller tells the story of Alice, an enslaved woman who escapes a plantation only to discover it’s actually 1973. 🤯 She crosses paths with activist Frank (played by Common), and together they journey toward truth and liberation.
While critics gave it a low 29% (ouch 😅), audiences came through with a warmer 59%, especially praising Keke’s performance — and rightfully so! She carried that film with strength and fire. 🔥
For me, it’s a 3 out of 5 stars — not the best, but still worth the watch if you love stories about resilience and awakening.
📚 Book of the Week: Till Summer Do Us Part by Meghan Quinn
Whew… this book had everything! A little funny, a little sad, a little romance — the perfect blend I didn’t know I needed right now. 💕
If you’ve read Meghan Quinn before, you know she never disappoints. This one reminded me exactly why she stays on my shelf. 📖✨
If you’re in Atlanta, don’t miss this one! 🗓 Sunday, November 2nd at 4 PM 📍 DBS Sounds, Riverdale, GA
Join us for an exclusive, up-close night of southern hip-hop and storytelling as we celebrate the 10-Year Anniversary of the 40 Akerz Project!
🎙 Hosted by DJ Ms Eclectic & Cece 🎟 Entry requires album purchase 👉 Get tickets here
🏈 Football + Fall Feels
It’s football season, y’all! You already know who I’m rocking with — my Dallas Cowboys 💙⭐ (the world’s most hated team, but still my team!). Who’s yours? Drop it in the comments!
🎀 October = Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Let’s keep showing love and support to the survivors and warriors. 💕 Whether it’s a donation, a walk, or a kind word — every bit matters.
🕯️ Candlelight Conversations with Cece
If you’ve been following along, here are tonight’s cozy candle picks — perfect for self-care Sundays:
M&SENSE Celestial Cypress – Cedarwood Spice Scent A grounding, woody aroma that keeps you centered and intentional. 👉 Buy Here
96NORTH Luxury Vanilla Soy Candle Warm vanilla comfort — a reminder that even in waiting seasons, you are held. 👉 Buy Here
Sweet Water Decor Cinnamon Roll Candle Buttery pastry, sweet icing, and cinnamon — the scent of pure comfort. 👉 Buy Here
🎃 Halloween + What’s Next for Cece in the City! Halloween is this week — if you’re celebrating, be safe and have fun! I can’t wait to see everyone’s creative costumes. I usually sit it out, but next year… I might just join in! 👻
Also, it’s time to continue my 50 States by 50 journey! I’ve restarted and planned it oout so it’s doable. ✈️ 🌍 State 1: Georgia – Watch here
🌄 State 2: Tennessee – Watch here Come travel with me on Cece in the City — where adventure, learning, and joy never stop!
💬 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re watching a movie, reading a book, lighting a candle, or cheering on your favorite team — make this week count. Stay warm, stay kind, and keep shining.
I hope y’all are doing amazing. We’re still rolling through my birthday month 🎉 (you know I celebrate the whole month!), and even though I haven’t done much, I’ve been preparing for a brand-new chapter and journey in my life. Let’s catch up on this week!
🍔 First stop: Smashd Burgers and Bourbon Stone Mountain just got a new gem — Smashd Burgers and Bourbon! I had to check it out, and let me tell you… the French Toast Patty Melt was everything! Sweet, savory, and so good. The onion rings? Huge and crispy, just the way I like them. Definitely worth the visit if you’re in the area. Check them out 👉 www.smashdbb.com
👩👧 Challenge Time with My Daughter Me and one of my daughters started our own little challenge — reading a manifesting book together 📖✨. That inspired us to take it further with a camo-style day (yes, we rocked camouflage fits!) and even made digital vision boards. Reminder: it’s never too late to create a vision for your life. I love challenges that bring positivity and creativity into the mix.
🎬 Movie Night: Cece on the Scenes This week’s watch was Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing. The story tackled trafficking — such an important topic that definitely needs more conversation. I’ll be real, the quality gave more Tubi vibes than Netflix, but the message was powerful. I’d rate it 3 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐. Oh — and I spotted someone I actually know in the film (shoutout and congrats to him 👏).
🕯️ Candlelight Conversations with Cece You know I set the vibe right during my journaling sessions. This week, I’ve been loving:
Candle-lite Creamy Vanilla Swirl (18 oz, up to 110 hrs burn time) – cozy, sweet, perfect for fall nights. 👉 Grab it here
M&SENSE Coffee Cappucina Candle (11.3 oz soy wax, 70 hrs burn time) – smells like a coffee shop and fuels my creativity. 👉 Get it here
📚 Book Club Pick For September, Cece Book Club is diving into An Unlikely Story by Ali Rosen. Still time to join us if you want in! Grab your copy 👉 Amazon Link
💻 Quick Plug Don’t forget — blog features are $100 and Where It Begins magazine covers are $500. Let’s make magic together ✨.
That’s the rundown for now — but stay tuned. More fun, fashion, books, candles, and adventures coming this week and next.
Hey fam! Wheweeee… can we talk about how long August was? 😅 So much going on, and I don’t know about y’all, but I am definitely hoping September brings in brighter vibes — especially since it’s my birthday month! 🥳💖 You already know I love celebrating September big.
Now, I know I haven’t been posting much about books lately (life has been lifing), but y’all know I’m a true bookworm. 📚 I just wrapped up Till Summer Do Us Part by Meghan Quinn, and listen — this one gets a solid 4/5 stars from me! ⭐⭐⭐⭐ It had everything: hilarious moments, romance, and even a touch of therapy vibes. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for your next good read. 👉 Grab the book here.
Speaking of therapy vibes, have you been tuning into Candlelight Conversations with Cece? ✨ If not, what are you waiting for? We’re spreading love, light, and uplifting energy — and we could all use a little more of that right now. 💕
And y’all know, no Candlelight Conversation is complete without the perfect candle glow. 🕯️ So, let me put you on to a few gems I’ve been loving lately:
✨ MELONY Massage Candle Oil – Smells like heaven (Bamboo Orchid 😍) and doubles as a moisturizing body oil when it melts. Perfect for self-care nights or couples’ massages. Get yours here.
💕 Debossed Pink Bow Pillar Candle – This one is giving all the coquette vibes! So cute for home décor, journaling nights, or setting the mood without heavy scents. Check it out here.
♎️ Libra Gift Candle with Crystals – My September/October babies, this one’s for you! Beautiful, relaxing, and makes the perfect birthday gift (or treat for yourself). Grab it here.
Let’s set the vibes, y’all — candles, good reads, and a whole lot of positive energy. 🌙✨
Oh, and before I forget — if you’re looking to get your business promoted on the blog or even want to be featured on the cover of Where It Begins magazine, I’m still running specials: 📝 Blogs: $100 📸 Covers: $500
Stay tuned, because September is about to be full of blessings, books, and birthday vibes. 💃🏽
This past Sunday was one for the books! I pulled up to DBS Sounds in Riverdale to support not one, but TWO powerhouse queens — Teyana Taylor and Ciara — and let me tell you, the vibes were unmatched.
First up was Teyana Taylor with her fire new album 🔥. The line was wrapped around the building, but she showed mad love to every single fan. Not only did she sign our CDs, she even stepped outside to sign vinyls, shoes, and anything people brought her way. That kind of love for the fans? Instant respect. 🙌
Then came Ciara — and baybeee, she was full of nothing but smiles, energy, and pure joy. She was dancing, vibin’, and signing CDs like the true star she is. When I told her my name was Cece too, we both cracked up — double Cece energy in the building! 😂 My daughter came with me and got to meet them both, which was extra special because it might have been her first time meeting celebrities in person. Her excitement made the whole day even better. 💖
Of course, it’s never complete without linking up with DJ Ms. Eclectic — always bringing the fun and good vibes. We’ve got a new project in the works, so stay tuned because we stay moving in the city.
One thing about Atlanta — you just never know who you’re going to run into or what’s going to pop off. That’s why y’all gotta keep up with me, Cece in the City. 🎶✨
And listen — I know a lot of people don’t really do CDs and vinyl anymore, but trust me when I say… they are making a comeback. These albums are worth having in your collection. Support these dope ladies and their new projects — you won’t regret it!
💿🎶 Until next time, stay tuned… Cece in the City signing off.
Looking for a fresh way to promote your book, brand, or business?
Let us spotlight you across Cece in the City and Where It Begins Magazine—two powerful platforms built to share stories, elevate brands, and reach thousands of engaged followers.
Why Collaborate With Us?
We’ve built an authentic community and strong reach to help YOU shine:
March was pretty good to us! Our March book pick was Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng, and we had a great discussion this past Sunday in Cece Book Club. If you’re a bookworm, come join us—we’d love to have you!
Now April is here, and you know what they say—April showers! It’s definitely been raining, but with that comes growth, and I’m excited to announce a brand-new project: Cece in the City Pop-Ups! I’ll be popping up all around the city, highlighting amazing places, businesses, people, and more. I’m so excited about this new movement, so stay tuned and follow along!
What are your goals for April? What are you looking forward to this spring? It’s spring break for many—hope you get to do something fun and relaxing!
If you’d like me to pop up and highlight your business, new book, or special project, let me know! Cece in the City is all about supporting you!
This July, I’ve been on a culinary adventure across Atlanta, and today’s stop is an absolute gem: Cuckoo’s Cafe in Duluth. Let me just say, OMG! This place is beyond cute and absolutely charming.
My daughter and I had the best time ever. The moment we walked in, we were enchanted by the whimsical decor – it’s like stepping into a fairy tale. The ambiance is perfect for kids (and adults who are kids at heart).
We decided to try the chicken sandwich, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Juicy, flavorful, and just the right amount of crunch – it was a hit! We paired it with some delightful drinks, and it was a meal to remember.
But the fun didn’t stop there. My daughter, a huge Hello Kitty fan, was over the moon to find Hello Kitty keyrings and plushies at the cafe. Her smile was priceless, and she couldn’t resist getting one.
I can’t get over how cute and well-decorated Cuckoo’s Cafe is. From the colorful walls to the adorable seating arrangements, every corner is Instagram-worthy. Plus, it’s spacious with a lovely patio – perfect for those sunny days.
If you have little ones or just want to enjoy a delightful cafe experience, Cuckoo’s Cafe is a must-visit. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with it just like we did.
