Happy Wednesday, everyone! Hope your week is going great so far 😊
The temperatures dropped again—but hey, it is winter, so bundle up and stay cozy. A little fun history note: tomorrow, January 15, is National Hat Day! 🎩 Hats have been around for centuries—once worn to show social status, protect from the elements, or even represent professions. So tomorrow, rock your favorite hat and make it a vibe.
🎬 Cece On The Scenes – Watch of the Week I watched People We Meet on Vacation and loved it! Definitely a 4 out of 5 for me. It was one of those feel-good, reflective stories that stays with you. I just grabbed the book too, so stay tuned—my full book review is coming soon!
📚 Cece Reads Just finished Bridesmaid Undercover and whew—another 4 out of 5! Her books always take you through all the emotions: laughter, sadness, love—everything wrapped into one story. I truly enjoy her writing. If you’re looking for a fun, heartfelt read, check it out here: 👉 https://amzn.to/4aUDjbH
🍔 Weekly Adventures This week’s adventures were a vibe! I hit up The Vortex with one of my besties—OMG, such a different spot with the skull décor and edgy atmosphere. The food was good, the customer service was on point, and they’re definitely known for their burgers. If you haven’t been, add it to your list.
🦕 We also went to Fernbank Museum—I’ve been many times (especially since I used to work there), but it was my bestie’s first visit, so we had to go. We checked out the IMAX film Wild Rescue, which focused on saving animals. It was sad and beautiful at the same time—very powerful. I’ll definitely be sending them a thank-you note for the amazing work they do to protect wildlife. If you haven’t been in a while, go check it out.
As always, stay tuned to Cece in the City—more adventures, reads, and vibes coming your way. ✨🏙️
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:
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 💫
Hey everyone! I hope you had a wonderful holiday and found time to enjoy good moments with family, friends, and quiet rest. I only had Christmas Day off this year — and honestly, that small pocket of stillness was exactly what I needed. I slowed down, unplugged a bit, and picked up a book I’d been wanting to dive into for a while: the story of Allen Iverson.
Allen Iverson isn’t just a legendary name in basketball — his journey is layered with struggle, resilience, culture, and transformation. From his early life in Virginia to becoming one of the most influential guards in NBA history, his story is raw and human. Reading the book gave me a deeper look at the challenges he faced both on and off the court — the pressure, the setbacks, the moments of doubt, and the strength it took to rise again.
After finishing the book, I went straight into the documentary, and it brought his journey to life even more. Seeing his growth, honesty, and maturity over time was powerful. It reminded me that our storms don’t define us — how we come through them does. If you haven’t checked out the book or documentary yet, I definitely recommend both.
Now — Cece on the Scenes!
If you know me, you know I don’t watch a lot of series… but when I do, “Emily in Paris” always pulls me in. This new season? Whew — the twists, the surprises, the moments that made me say “wait, what?” — and yet it still delivered that chic, dreamy Parisian charm. Watching it made Paris climb even higher on my travel bucket list. The fashion, the scenery, the café culture — yes, I’m ready to book a flight!
Speaking of journeys — I’ve also been following the incredible pilgrimage of a group of monks who are walking all the way from Texas to Washington, D.C. They’re traveling in the spirit of peace, prayer, and reflection. Although I won’t get a chance to see them while they’re passing through Georgia, their mission really touched my heart. As temperatures drop and they continue north toward colder weather — possibly snow — I’m keeping them lifted in prayer. Their commitment reminds us that purpose and devotion often require endurance.
And just like that — here we are in the final week of December, standing at the doorway of a brand-new year. 2025 is wrapping up, and 2026 is right around the corner. I hope you’re not just preparing for a new year, but preparing for growth, alignment, and new opportunities.
Here’s to reflection, inspiration, and continuing the journey — one page, one scene, one step at a time. 💫
Here we are, stepping into the final chapter of 2025.
December always feels like a fresh breath of magic — twinkling lights, cozy nights, and that little nudge reminding us to set new goals and draft new dreams. It’s the perfect time to start your next chapter, whatever that looks like for you.
So grab a warm drink and let’s jump into Cece On the Scenes! 🎬✨
I watched Ghosting: The Spirit of Christmas starring Aisha Dee, Kimiko Glenn, and a few other familiar faces. Let me tell you… it’s a quirky mix of friendship, love, and the afterlife. Cute in its own way, but for me, it lands at a 3 out of 5. Still, if you’re building your holiday movie list, add it in. It definitely gives you something to think about during these festive nights.
Now, into the Cece Book Club Corner 📚🎄 This month we read Wish You Were Here by Jodi Picoult. Whew! I’m giving it a 3 out of 5. It had twists that completely blindsided me — in a good way — but that ending… chile, I was hoping for more. Still, I can’t WAIT to talk it out with the book club this Sunday. If you’ve read it, you already know there’s so much to unpack!
Let’s talk Atlanta gems ✨ Have you ever been to the High Museum of Art? If you love creativity, culture, or just a fun day out, you’ll enjoy it. And the Atlanta Botanical Garden Lights? A MUST-SEE. Every year they transform the garden into a glowing wonderland — it’s basically the North Pole but make it Atlanta chic.
And speaking of treats… I’m in my comfort-food era. I had a craving for a baked potato, and if you’ve never been to Jason’s Deli, baby listen… their baked potatoes are a whole meal. Not a snack. A MEAL.
So tell me — are you ready for the holidays? Any traditions that you look forward to every year? Before you finish reading this, do one thing for me: check on a friend or family member you haven’t talked to in a while. December is the season of giving, and sometimes the biggest gift is a simple “Hey, you good?”
Stay tuned — more adventures are coming to Cece in the City. 🎄✨ Let’s finish 2025 with joy, gratitude, and a little sparkle.
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. 💖
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.
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.
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. 💕
Y’all already know—I couldn’t let World Book Day slide by without saying something! Books are my peace, my escape, my everyday adventure. I usually dive into at least two books a week, and each one takes me somewhere new—whether it’s a love novel or the heart of an inspiring memoir.
So, what are you reading right now? Are you on Goodreads? I love connecting with fellow readers and finding new gems to add to my list.
Authors—this one’s for you! If you’ve written a book and want me to review it or feature it on my blog, I got you! I support authors heavy, and I love sharing stories with my community. Book your spot now by filling out the form, and let’s put your work in the spotlight!
Also, if you’re a book lover like me, come join the Cece Book Club on Facebook! We read, we vibe, we discuss, and we support each other’s literary journeys. It’s nothing but good reads and good energy.
Alright, fam—I’m off to squeeze in my 30 minutes to an hour of reading before bed. I hope you found time to relax today… and maybe even crack open a good book. Happy reading!
If you know me, you know I love a good book—and last night I finished one that truly left an imprint on me: Armed with Good Intentions by Wallo.
I’ve been following Wallo on IG for a while now. His videos? Pure gold. They’re raw, real, inspiring, and sometimes hilarious—but always packed with wisdom. What I love most is how genuine he is. After spending half his life behind bars, Wallo could’ve let his past define him—but instead, he turned it all around.
This book dives even deeper into his story. The pain, the lessons, the setbacks, and ultimately, the redemption. He’s seen a lot, been through a lot, but he chose to come home and elevate. He didn’t just change his life—he made it his mission to motivate others to do the same.
People doubted him, tried to silence his voice, but Wallo kept going. He kept showing up, posting his videos, dropping gems, and being unapologetically him. And you know what? That consistency and passion is contagious.
As someone who shares my voice through blogs, Wallo inspired me to start using my voice on video too. So if you’re reading this, Wallo—thank you. Keep being a blessing. Keep pushing forward. You’re touching more lives than you know.
Y’all, do yourself a favor and grab his book. Whether you’re a fan already or just love a good comeback story, Armed with Good Intentions is worth the read.
Hey everyone! As you know, I’ve started fresh with my blogging and vlogging journey, traveling to all 50 states. My first stop was Georgia, and I hope you all enjoyed that adventure. Now, let’s dive into State #2: Tennessee!
Although my trip was cut short due to a family emergency, I know I’ll be back—especially since I still need to explore Nashville! But for this visit, we made our way to Chattanooga, a city rich in history and scenic beauty.
Ruby Falls: A Hidden Wonder Beneath the Earth
Our first stop was Ruby Falls, home to the tallest underground waterfall in the U.S. The journey through the cave was a bit of a workout, but seeing that breathtaking waterfall made it all worth it. The water cascades down, changing colors as lights illuminate it, creating a magical scene.
Lookout Mountain: A View Like No Other
Next, we visited Lookout Mountain, a place steeped in both natural beauty and history. Though it was getting chilly, we managed to take in the stunning view. From the top, you can see seven states—Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. It’s incredible to think about standing in one spot and gazing across so many states at once!
A Stay at the Historic Hotel Chalet
We checked into the Hotel Chalet, a charming spot with a unique twist—train car hotel rooms! Unfortunately, they were all booked, but I did get a chance to see them up close. Just imagine staying inside a vintage train car turned into a cozy hotel room. Next time, I’m definitely staying in one!
Dining in a Piece of History: Stir at the Chattanooga Choo Choo Complex
For dinner, we headed to Stir, a restaurant located inside the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo complex. The food was amazing—I had shrimp and grits along with some oysters. If you’re ever in Chattanooga, I highly recommend it!
Walking Across History: Walnut Street Bridge
Even though it was a bit too cold to take a full stroll, I got to check out the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges. I can’t wait to go back when the weather is warmer and take in the views at a leisurely pace.
Bonus: A Book, a Breakfast, and a Story
For breakfast, we stopped at Big Bad Breakfast (BBB)—and let me tell you, it was delicious! I had French toast and scrambled cheese eggs, and I even got a taste of my daughter’s pancakes. The service was top-notch. But here’s the cool part—the founder, Chef John Currence, has a deep passion for breakfast, and he even wrote a book called Big Bad Breakfast. Of course, I had to get it! The book is filled with stories and recipes, blending food and storytelling—right up my alley!
The Soundtrack of Tennessee: ‘Tennessee’ by Arrested Development
Every state needs a song, right? For Tennessee, I had to go with “Tennessee” by Arrested Development—such a classic! Fun fact: I actually had the chance to interview Speech, one of the members, for my Where It Begins magazine. I’ll drop the link below so you can check it out!
2 states down, 48 to go! Where do you think I’m heading next? Stay tuned for my next adventure, and if you’d like to support my journey, visit buymeacoffee.com/ceceinthecity. See you in the next state!
This month, I’m excited to highlight and support some incredible people I’ve met and the fascinating books they’ve written. As a true bookworm with a passion for reading, I can’t resist sharing their journeys and stories with you.
One book that really caught my attention is The Nichols Brothers: Suburbia to Destruction by Mark Nichols. You might recall the chilling story from 2005 when Brian Nichols brought Atlanta to a standstill after escaping custody and killing a judge. This book dives deep into that event, offering a gripping look at what led up to that fateful day.
I had the opportunity to speak with the author, Mark Nichols, who is Brian Nichols’ brother. Hearing his perspective and learning more about the story made this book even more impactful. And yes, I’ve got my autographed copy—definitely a treasure in my collection.
If you’re curious to know more about this intense and compelling story, I highly recommend checking out the book. It’s a powerful read that will leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page
