Cece In The City

Tag: #BlogLife

End-of-Year Energy: Action Movies, Manifesting & Atlanta Nights
Hey hey everyone ✨

I hope you’re having a beautiful December. With only a couple of weeks left before the new year, it’s that reflective, exciting space where we start thinking about goals, ideas, bucket lists, and what we want to carry (or leave) behind. So let me catch you up on a little of everything — movies, books, city vibes, and giving back — Cece style.

🎬 Cece on the Scenes: Movie Night Catch-Up

I finally watched The Marksman, an older movie but brand new to me — and honestly, it surprised me in the best way. Starring Liam Neeson, the film follows a quiet rancher who suddenly finds himself protecting a young boy from cartel assassins. What starts as a simple act of kindness turns into a gritty, high-stakes road trip across the Southwest.

The action is steady, the tension is real, and it has that neo-Western feel that blends heart with hard choices. Since I’m always here for a movie with action, I’m giving this one a solid 3 out of 5 stars ⭐️.

Even though it originally dropped in 2021, The Marksman recently found new life on streaming and hit #1 on Netflix, proving that some stories just need the right moment to shine. Definitely worth adding to your watch list.

📖 Cece Book Club: Manifesting with Intention

Next up — Cece Book Club ✨📚

I finally finished How to Manifest: Make Your Dreams a Reality in 40 Days by Laura Chung. This one took me a little while to complete, but that was part of the process. The goal is one chapter a day for 40 days, and it really encourages you to slow down, reflect, and be intentional.

Journaling and manifesting have truly become a part of my life, so this book showed up right on time. It’s not about rushing — it’s about alignment. If you’re focused on growth, clarity, and calling in the life you desire, this is definitely a great read to add to your list.

🏙️ Cece in the City: Dancing, Downtown, & Me Time

Now let’s talk Cece in the City 💃🏽✨

I had the chance to step out for Old School Saturday, and while I hadn’t been in a while, it reminded me why those nights are always a vibe. Good music, good energy, and even better company. I love being around friends who actually dance, laugh, and enjoy the moment — not just sit around people-watching.

The event was hosted at the Hyatt Regency in Atlanta, which is such a beautiful hotel and always adds to the experience.

This weekend also gave me something just as important — me time. I took a day to relax, think, and journal. No rush, no noise — just space to reflect. Time is flying, and with 2026 on the horizon, it was exactly what my spirit needed.

❤️ Giving Back: The 6th Annual Giveback

As we head into the holidays, giving back remains close to my heart.

It’s that time of year again — The 6th Annual Giveback for the Unhoused Community, led by DJ Ms. Eclectic, who shows up every single year with love and purpose.

On Christmas Day, essential bags will be distributed, including:
- Wet wipes
- Tissue
- Hand warmers (Hot Hands)
- Water
- Socks
- Feminine hygiene products
- And so much more
If you’d like to donate items or contribute financially, you can do so here: Cash App: $EclecticMusicEnt

Thank you for being a blessing and helping spread love during the season that matters most.

✨ Stay tuned for more Cece in the City — more stories, more gems, and more moments worth sharing. And tell me… what are your goals or bucket-list ideas as we head into the new year?
December 15, 2025
🍁 A Much-Needed Escape: From Gibbs Garden to Amicalola Falls & A Bus-Turned-Burger-Spot Adventure

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!

Get here

https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

💧 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!

Until the next adventure 💛
— Cece in the City 🌆✨

November 24, 2025
🍁 Goodbye October, Hello November — A Season of Thanks and Giving

Hey everyone! As we say goodbye to October and welcome November, I can’t help but feel that cozy shift in the air. The leaves are changing, the temperatures are dropping, and soon our kitchens will be filled with the comforting aromas of soups, chili, and hot cocoa. This is the season for thanks — and for giving.

🎶 ATL Soul Vibes x Nappy Roots — They are Celebrating 10 Years of Culture & Community.

We kicked off the month celebrating ATL Soul Vibes with none other than Nappy Roots at DBS Sounds for their 10-year anniversary. The rain tried to stop us, but the vibes were too strong! Fans showed up, energy was high, and the night turned into something truly special — intimate, soulful, and full of connection.

If you’re new to ATL Soul Vibes, let me give you the inside scoop: it’s Atlanta’s invite-only live music series featuring soulful artists, intimate vibes, and deep cultural roots — all filmed at DBS Sounds, where music and community meet.

Huge shoutout to Nappy Roots for being our first group to hit the ATL Soul Vibes stage and absolutely rock it! Not only are they talented artists, but they’re humble, grounded, and deeply involved in the community. If you haven’t yet, check out their brewery, Atlantucky Brewing — another passion project born from creativity and culture.

I’ll never forget when they graced the cover of my very third issue of Where It Begins Magazine — a full-circle moment that still fills me with gratitude.

Special thanks to my amazing partner DJ Ms. Eclectic — always full of fresh ideas, endless support, and good energy. Teamwork really does make the dream work! Much appreciation also goes to Gary for sound, Jermaine from When We Speak TV, and of course the entire DBS Sounds team for helping us make this vision come alive. Atlanta needs this energy — and trust me, there’s more to come. Stay tuned!

there’s more to come. Stay tuned!

💔 Remembering My Friend — Glenn Clifton Jr. (Young Bleed)

This month also brought a heavy moment as I said goodbye to a dear friend, Glenn Clifton Jr., known to many as Young Bleed. I called him Mister Professor — and that’s exactly what he was: wise, humble, and always teaching through his words and actions.

I’m so grateful I got to speak with him before and after Verzuz. He was full of life, ready to perform, and doing what he loved. The news of his passing still hurts, but I find comfort knowing he believed in God and is looking down, watching over us.

If you ever listened to his music, keep it alive. Stream it, share it, celebrate it. Let’s give him his flowers here and beyond. I even had the joy of interviewing him and surprising him with his own book for signing — moments I’ll always cherish.

Check it out:

https://youtu.be/hvnwWpausI4?si=OfCBpxtgUVu7d-pE

Also check this one out

https://youtu.be/bXav5La5fcE?si=kpO8bq92rJMTMVsP

Let this be a reminder: love your people while they’re here. Support your friends and give them their flowers now.

📚 Cece’s Book Club Pick of the Month

For November, our Cece Book Club pick is “Wish You Were Here” by Jodi Picoult. I’ve read her work before, and while opinions may vary, I always say — don’t let reviews decide for you. What’s not for one person might be perfect for another.

Join us on Instagram and Facebook @CeceBookClub — I’d love to hear your thoughts as we dive into this story together.

🌎 Sending Prayers & Gratitude

Before I close, I want to send heartfelt prayers to Jamaica and everyone affected by the recent challenges there. I’ve checked in with my friends, but it’s a reminder that we must stay prayed up — this world needs love and faith more than ever.

And speaking of gratitude — November 1st was National Author’s Day, and I can proudly say… I’m an author! 📖

My poetry book, Poems of Passion & Purpose, was one of my biggest accomplishments this year. Every page holds a piece of my heart and journey. If you haven’t checked it out yet, grab your copy on Amazon — and remember, you can truly do anything you put your mind to.

Get here:

https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

So here’s to a month of gratitude, growth, and giving. Stay tuned — more adventures, stories, and soulful moments are on the way.

With love & light,
Cece ✨
Cece in the City

November 6, 2025
A Chilly Sunday with Cece: Movies, Books & Music Magic

🌟 Happy Sunday, Beautiful People!

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. 📖✨

👉 Grab your copy here: Till Summer Do Us Part
Trust me — it’s the perfect fall read! 🍂

🎤 ATL Soul Vibes: The Nappy Roots Experience!

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.

Until next time,
💖 Cece

October 26, 2025
🌸 Sunday Vibes with Cece: Sips, Scents & Soulful Moments

Happy Sunday, beautiful people! ☁️ It may be a cloudy day, but our spirits are shining bright — especially as we celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 💕 Let’s give a huge shoutout to all the brave survivors out there — your strength, resilience, and stories light up the world.

Now let’s get into this week’s Cece highlights!

🥤 Cool Out Beverage Company: Sip & Chill

I had the chance to try out the Cool Out Beverage Company, and when I tell you these drinks hit the spot — whew! 😋 Their flavors are a vibe all on their own: Strawberry Sunrise, Coolata, Pineapple Dream, and Mango Tango.
Each one is tropical, refreshing, and reasonably priced — perfect for cooling out after a long day. Trust me, you’ll want to grab them for your next picnic or chill day on the patio!

🎬 Cece on the Scene: Netflix Pick of the Week

This week’s Netflix highlight is The Woman in Cabin 10. If you’re into thrillers, suspense, and “wait, what just happened?” moments, this one’s for you.
I read the book (gave it a solid 4 out of 5 ⭐️), and the movie held its own — also a 4 out of 5 in my bookworm opinion! 📚 Books usually have that extra magic, but this adaptation definitely didn’t disappoint. Pop some popcorn and add it to your movie night list!

🕯️ Candlelight Conversations with Cece & Cozy Scents

Y’all know I love setting the mood with a good candle while we dive into heart-to-heart talks on Candlelight Conversations with Cece.
Catch the latest episodes here:
🎧 YouTube
🎧 Spotify

And while you’re tuning in, here are a few candle must-haves for your vibe check:

🍂 Yankee Candle – Autumn Wreath (Up to 150 hrs burn time!)
Grab yours here: Amazon Link

Benevolence LA Birthday Magic Scented Candle 壟 Champagne & cake in a jar — with 40–50 hours of burn time, this candle is a beautiful reminder to celebrate YOU.
 Buy here: https://amzn.to/42Ptg2H

Yankee Candle Sugared Cinnamon Apple, Fall Scented Candle, 22oz Large Jar with up to 150 Hour Burn Time

Buy here

https://amzn.to/4hj8uOT

🎶 ATL Soul Vibes Live: Nappy Roots Experience

Atlanta, get ready for an unforgettable night! The legendary Nappy Roots are bringing southern soul and storytelling to DBS Sounds for the ATL Soul Vibes Live: The Nappy Roots Experience — celebrating 10 years of “40 Akerz Project”!

🎤 Hosted by DJ Ms Eclectic & Cece
🎟 Admission requires album purchase: Grab Tickets Here

(And psst… sponsorship packages are available too — let’s grow together!)

✈️ Travel Talk: Melanin Travels Magic

If you love exploring and seeing the world through new eyes, check out my recent interview with Melanin Travels Magic — we’re talking about adventure, empowerment, and the beauty of traveling boldly.
🎧 Listen here: Spotify Episode

However you spend your Sunday, do it with gratitude, a good playlist, and something that brings you joy. 💕

Until next time — stay inspired, stay glowing, and stay connected.

October 19, 2025
Cece in the City: Exploring Atlanta’s Hidden Gems
Happy Sunday, friends! 🌞 Let’s talk about a few of my Cece in the City adventures that make Atlanta one of the most vibrant and fun places to explore.
1. The BeltLine – If you haven’t been, the BeltLine is a whole vibe. From food spots to street performers, it’s where cultures mix and creativity flows. Whether you’re biking, walking, or just people-watching, there’s always something happening.
1. Krog Street Tunnel – This isn’t just a tunnel, it’s a living canvas. Every time I go, the art is different, bold, and full of energy. It’s like stepping into Atlanta’s heartbeat—raw, colorful, and ever-changing.
1. Hop ‘N Go Tours – Talk about fun! This rolling adventure takes you around Atlanta while serving up history and laughs. I learned things about the city I never knew, all while riding in style. Definitely a must-do if you want to play tourist for a day.
1. The Botanical Gardens – Flowers, sculptures, and serenity all in one. I’ve been to both the Atlanta Botanical Garden and the one in Gainesville. Atlanta’s is larger and full of surprises (especially during the holiday lights ✨), while Gainesville’s has its own charm and peaceful vibes. Both are worth it!
1. Mercedes-Benz Stadium – It’s football season, y’all! 🏈 From the skybox to the regular seats, this stadium is an experience no matter where you sit. The energy is electric, the food is surprisingly affordable, and it’s a piece of Atlanta history in the making.
Atlanta never runs out of gems to explore, and I’m just getting started. Stay tuned—more Cece in the City adventures are on the way! 💫
October 5, 2025
Falling Into October: Journals, Candles & Cozy Vibes with Cece
Hey everyone! 🍂✨ Welcome to October—the season of cozy sweaters, warm drinks, and colorful leaves drifting down. You can feel the shift in the air, and I’m here for all the fall vibes.

This month, I’m kicking off something special: The Cece Journal Challenge. 📓🍁 It’s a reflection journey inspired by fall, where we’ll dive into self-care, gratitude, and growth. Want to join in? Drop a comment below and let’s journal together!

Of course, fall wouldn’t be complete without candles. 🕯️ Here are three of my favorites to set the mood:
- Benevolence LA Eucalyptus Orange Wood Wick Candle – soy, fresh, cozy, and perfect for home (45-hour burn) 👉 Grab it here
- Yankee Candle French Vanilla – sweet, classic, and long-lasting (up to 150 hours burn) 👉 Get it here
- Yankee Candle Autumn Wreath – the ultimate fall scent in a large jar 👉 Shop here
And guess what? Cece on the Scenes is back! 🎬✨ I had the pleasure of watching Ruth & Boaz, starring powerhouses like Serayah McNeill, Tyler Lepley, Phylicia Rashad, and more. Let me just say—it’s a solid 5/5 in my book. 🌟

This film is more than a love story—it’s a reminder that love is real, joy is worth waiting for, and dreams are worth chasing. 💕 Don’t settle, don’t give up, keep believing. Have you seen it yet? 🍿👀

Over in Cece Book Club, I wanted to highlight one of Kennedy Ryan’s gems. She never fails to pull me in with her storytelling. This one gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 from me. 📚✨ Check it out 👉 Read here

Finally, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 💖—so let’s honor survivors, uplift warriors, and remember loved ones. Sending love and light to all.

Oh, and I’ve got some travel plans brewing ✈️🌍 … stay tuned because I can’t wait to share where I’m headed next!

Cheers to a beautiful October filled with cozy vibes, meaningful reflections, and new adventures. 🍁🕯️📚
October 4, 2025
Birthday Weekend Vibes

September 27th was my birthday, and let me tell you—it was a whole vibe from start to finish! ✨

First, big shoutout to Dede Tolder, the master colorist and stylist who’s been keeping my hair flawless for a while now. I told her, “Dede, I need a new look for my birthday—a fresh color for this new chapter and journey.” And sis did not disappoint! She trimmed it, colored it, and gave me this gorgeous fall-inspired look that matched the season perfectly. 🍂 If you’re in Stone Mountain and need a stylist for color, cuts, sew-ins, or more, definitely call her at 678-357-0480. She’s

the truth, and I left her chair feeling brand new.

Next stop: The Patio! I slipped into my Fashion Nova fit, felt cute (and I know I looked cute too 😏), and celebrated with family and friends. We laughed, danced, and just soaked in the good vibes all night long.

Saturday—my actual birthday—was just as special. My daughters took me to Rocking Crab, and listen… those crabs were everything! 🦀 They showered me with gifts, and I felt so loved. Big thanks to my family and friends for spoiling me—you all made me feel amazing.

And if that wasn’t enough, the celebration kept rolling. The following Sunday, we hit The Patio in Snellville again, and this time Slick Rick and Chubb Rock were in the building! The energy was crazy, my leopard Fashion Nova outfit was giving, and I danced the night away with my crew.

Overall, my birthday weekend was nothing short of incredible—full of love, laughter, and memories I’ll never forget. Here’s to another year, a new chapter, and a beautiful journey ahead. 🥂🎉 Happy Birthday to me—let’s see what this chapter brings! 💛

September 29, 2025
🍂✨ First Day of Fall… but Georgia Didn’t Get the Memo! ✨🍂

Hey fam! So technically, it’s the first day of Fall—but let me tell you, Georgia is still serving up that hot, sticky, feels-like-summer weather. No cozy sweater vibes just yet, but that didn’t stop me from having a weekend full of energy, good people, and unforgettable vibes.

🎬 This past weekend felt like a whole music video shoot (because, well—it was!). With my homie @therealyoungbleed in town, I had to pop out and connect. And wow… the lineup of legends I got to vibe with? Iconic!
Shoutout to @p_stacks_atl, @therealghettomafia, @planetpetedsgb, @therealdjjelly, @datboijizzal, @allentemplefreshprince, @yingyang__kaine, @nuface, @babyd_amg,

@therealeastsideboyz, @timzo_silk, @iamraheemthedream, @garylilg—the energy was nothing but love. And of course, fun times with @shanfreewill. 💫

And guess what? Birthday loading… 🥳 Yup, next week is my big day (Saturday!) and I still don’t have plans—but you know me, we’ll figure out something fabulous. Y’all tell me, what should I do to celebrate? Drop your suggestions below 👇🏾.

🕯️ Tonight’s Candle Corner
Because what’s life without a little light, scent, and reflection?

✨ WoodWick Warm Woods Trilogy Candle 🌲🔥
The crackling wood wick is giving cozy vibes—even if the weather isn’t. Perfect for slowing down and opening your heart to joy.
👉 Get yours here

✨ HomeLights Blueberry Cheesecake Candle 🫐🍰
A sweet reminder that your story is unfolding exactly when it should. Plus—it smells like dessert. Who can resist that?
👉 Buy here

✨ Chesapeake Bay Serenity + Calm (Lavender Thyme) 🌿💜
If peace and gratitude had a fragrance, it would be this candle. Perfect for journaling, meditating, or just breathing deep.
👉 Bring it home

📓 Cece Journal Challenge is Coming This October!
I’m launching something new and soulful for all my writers and journal lovers out there—weekly prompts to inspire reflection, creativity, and a little self-love. Drop a 💜 in the comments if you want in.

So tell me—are you ready for Fall? 🍂 Got any big plans? Or are you like me, still in that “summer vibes, birthday loading” mode?

Either way, let’s step into this season with joy, light, and gratitude. 💫

September 22, 2025
✨ Happy Sunday, everyone! ✨
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.
September 14, 2025