Cece In The City

Tag: cece.atl

  • Peaches, Petals & Perspiration: Our Hot Adventure at Southern Belle Farm

    This past weekend, my daughter checked an item off her bucket list… and added one to mine.

    Welcome to Southern Belle Farm — a 330-acre working farm in McDonough, GA, rich in Southern charm, sun-soaked fields, and the juiciest peaches you’ll ever taste. When my daughter said she wanted to visit, I was like, “Yes girl, I’m down!” But let me tell you — she picked one of the hottest days in Georgia history (okay, maybe not official history, but it felt like it). I’m talking “fried-egg-on-the-sidewalk” kind of hot. Thank God for my neck fan. If you don’t have one, stop reading and go grab you one. Seriously. Here is the link

    https://amzn.to/3I9t333

    Now, my vision of visiting Southern Belle Farm involved crisp air, cozy flannels, pumpkin spice everything, and hayrides — because I’m a fall girl through and through. But peaches were in season, and I have to say… it made for a pretty sweet detour.

    🍑 Peach Picking & Petal Snipping

    The farm was in full peach mode — trees heavy with fruit, sun beaming down, and that Southern aroma of summer in the air. My daughters beelined to the peach orchard, ready to fill their bucket with those golden gems straight off the tree. Meanwhile, I wandered off to the flower patch to live my soft life dream of handpicking a bouquet.

    It was giving “Little House on the Prairie” until I was swarmed by bees and butterflies (because duh — flowers). Let’s just say Mother Nature doesn’t play. I may have only clipped a few flowers, but I picked the prettiest ones I could find while dodging bees like I was in the Olympics.

    🐐 The Animal Encounter

    After that, we headed over to the animal area. Goats, cows, donkeys — the whole gang was out. Even in the heat, they were trotting up to say “What’s good?” (or really, “You got snacks?”). My daughter was brave enough to feed them — me, not so much. I just stood back and documented the moment like the proud mama/photographer-in-training I am. Yup, I brought my camera along to practice my shots. Still learning, but I’m loving the journey.

    📸 Family Time & Fresh Finds

    Southern Belle Farm is more than just a cute stop — it’s a slice of Georgia history. This place has been around for generations, bringing families together for fresh food, fun, and that authentic farm feel. From peaches in the summer to pumpkins in the fall, every season brings its own flavor — literally.

    Even though I was melting under the Georgia sun, I truly enjoyed myself. There’s something special about unplugging, picking your own produce, and just spending good ol’ fashioned quality time with family. Will I be back? Oh absolutely — but next time, catch me in boots, a cardigan, and fall leaves crunching under my feet.

    If you’ve never been to Southern Belle Farm, you’re missing out on a Georgia gem. Whether you’re team peach or pumpkin, it’s worth a visit.

    And remember: bring water, wear a hat, and don’t forget that neck fan!

  • Back at the Lobster Trap: A Seafood Throwback with a Twist of New Leadership 🦞

    So, me and my homegirl decided to take a little seafood stroll down memory lane and hit up none other than Red Lobster. Yes, that Red Lobster — home of the iconic Cheddar Bay Biscuits that still slap just like you remember (and yes, we had to get extra to-go 😅).

    It’s honestly been years since I last stepped foot in a Red Lobster, but this time, something felt different — in a good way. Did you know Red Lobster now has a new CEO? Shoutout to Famolade Adamolekun, who recently stepped in to lead the brand. That’s major! It’s refreshing to see fresh leadership taking over a nostalgic name in dining, especially one that’s been around since 1968 — yep, Red Lobster has been serving up seafood classics for over 50 years.

    We pulled up expecting a quiet dinner, but to my surprise, the vibe was alive — not packed to the brim, but just the right amount of busy. A comfortable buzz of families, date nights, and friends catching up filled the room. The staff? Super friendly and attentive — customer service was on point!

    I went all in and got the crab legs 🦀 — juicy, tender, and seasoned just right. My homegirl tried the seafood boil, and it looked like it came straight from the bayou. You ever tried it? If not, that might need to be your next order!

    And of course, no Red Lobster trip is complete without those warm, cheesy biscuits. Iconic. Legendary. Still undefeated. 💛

    All in all, it was a vibe. Sometimes it’s good to revisit places from your past and see how they’re holding up — and Red Lobster? Still got it.

    When’s the last time you been to Red Lobster? Have you tried the boil yet? Let me know your go-to order.

  • A Weekend of Memories, Music & Moments

    Hey y’all!

    This weekend was one for the books — a blend of emotions, culture, family time, and smooth jazz vibes. First, I want to pause and say Happy Heavenly Birthday to my beautiful mom. Although she’s no longer here with us on earth, I still keep our little tradition alive: I grab a bunch of balloons and release them into the sky with love. It’s my way of saying, “I’m thinking of you, always.” She’s the reason I keep going, and moments like these remind me just how much I miss her every single day.

    To celebrate life and keep our spirits lifted, my daughters and I headed out for one of our special weekend adventures. We take turns choosing what we do — and this time, it was one of my daughters’ picks. She chose a unique gem called Gio Am Nhac in Doraville, GA. This little shop was filled with a mix of treasures — music, trinkets, and vibes. Our rule: everyone had to pick one item. I ended up choosing a green bracelet. If you know me, you know I love the color green — it’s calming, vibrant, and reminds me of growth and peace.

    After that, our foodie hearts led us to Paris Mi Banh, where I tried their pâté pork roll croissant. Let me just say — different, but interesting. I’m all about stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing different cultures through food, and this spot definitely gave me a new experience!

    But wait — my weekend didn’t stop there.

    On Saturday night, I had the pleasure of seeing the legendary Gerald Albright live at the Fayetteville Amphitheater. If you’re a jazz lover, you already know — he never disappoints. This was my second time seeing him, but my first time at this venue. The atmosphere was beautiful, and the music? Soul-soothing. Yes, it was hot out, but shoutout to my friend who brought neck fans — lifesavers! If you don’t have one yet, check Amazon ASAP and thank me later.

    Click link to get Fan

    https://amzn.to/43YSRaE

    So that was my weekend — filled with love, family, culture, and jazz. What about you? How did you spend your weekend? Tried any new places, caught any good shows, or had a special moment with someone you love?

    Drop it in the comments — I’d love to hear from you.

    With love and city adventures,
    Cece

  • Celebrating Fathers, Freedom & Favorites – A June to Remember

    Hey everyone! I hope all the amazing fathers out there had a wonderful Father’s Day — you truly deserve to be celebrated. 💙Even though my dad lives 10–12 hours away, I still found a way to send him some love. I gifted him a neck fan (you know the kind that wraps around your neck and blows cool air) — perfect for someone who’s always walking or out in the yard during these hot summer days. He told me, “This is just what I needed,” and that warmed my heart. Sometimes it’s the simple, thoughtful gifts that make the biggest difference.

    Click here to purchase

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    Speaking of meaningful days… today is Juneteenth — a powerful reminder of freedom, resilience, and how far we’ve come. On June 19, 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom. It’s a day to reflect, educate, and celebrate. So tell me — how are you honoring Juneteenth today?

    While you’re soaking in the summer vibes, I’ve been busy doing a little bit of everything:
    📚 Book Review: I just finished A Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (yes, I adore her books!). This story follows two writers battling for the same book deal — and while they’re supposed to be competitors, sparks begin to fly. Of course, there’s a twist! If you love romantic tension and creative journeys, you’ll want to grab this one.

    🎬 Movie Review: I watched The Last Bullet recently — and as an action lover, I gave it a solid 4 out of 5. It kept me on the edge of my seat!

    Purchase Here

    https://amzn.to/4ldNHwY

    🌮 Foodie Find: Finally tried Rreal Tacos in Lawrenceville, GA — it’s a new location and super cute inside. They also have a patio space if you like dining outdoors. The tacos were flavorful, though my daughter was a bit bummed they didn’t have lettuce. Minor gnat situation aside, the customer service was great and the 30-minute wait was expected with it being a new location. If you’ve eaten there, let me know your thoughts!

    Also, don’t forget — I offer product reviews, book reviews, movie reviews, and business shoutouts. I’m currently running special rates this month, so if you’re interested, email me at cecewibnet@gmail.com and let’s work together.

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    📖 And last but not least — if you haven’t already, grab a copy of my poetry book on Amazon. Your support means the world. 💕

    Purchase Here

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    Thanks for reading and remember — support businesses, read a good book, and celebrate your freedom, people, and your passions.

    Until next time,
    Cece in the City

  • Goodbye May, Hello June: Halfway Through the Year Already?!

    Time is truly flying—can you believe we’re already halfway through the year? As we wave goodbye to May and welcome June with open arms, I’m feeling reflective, inspired, and ready to keep the momentum going.

    We wrapped up our May Cece Book Club discussion today, diving into Questions I Want to Ask You by Michelle Falkoff. It was a short read, but packed with emotion and thought-provoking moments. I gave it a solid 4 out of 5 stars—a great pick to close out the month!

    https://amzn.to/3FB36Z6

    Kicking off June, I watched The Wild Robot, an Oscar-nominated animated gem featuring the voice of Lupita Nyong’o as Roz, a robot who finds herself becoming a surrogate mother to a little gosling. It’s a beautiful story about connection, growth, and love in the most unexpected forms. If you haven’t seen it yet, definitely add it to your watchlist!

    Love poetry? I’ve got something for you. Show some love and grab a copy of “Poems of Passion & Purpose“—a moving collection that deserves a spot on your shelf. Available now on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    In exciting news, I’ve partnered with the amazing DJ Ms. Eclectic, and we’re now doing exclusive interviews together! Artists, authors, entrepreneurs—if you have a story to share, we want to help you tell it.

    Want to spotlight your business, product, or book? We’re currently running special rates for blog shoutouts and ad space in Where It Begins magazine. Let’s get you the exposure you deserve!

    Thank you so much for supporting, reading, sharing, and following this journey. Stay tuned—there’s so much more on the way. From blog posts to interviews, books to travel adventures… this is only the beginning.

    Let’s make June unforgettable.

  • Honoring the Legacy: A Memorial Day Reflection + A Visit to Charis Books

    Happy Memorial Day! As we honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country, I hope everyone found a moment of peace and gratitude this weekend. Whether you spent time with loved ones, reflected in solitude, or simply enjoyed the sunshine, may the meaning behind the day remain close to heart.

    Last Monday, I had the chance to visit a place that holds its own kind of powerful history — Charis Books & More in Decatur, Georgia. If you’re not familiar, Charis is one of the oldest independent feminist bookstores in the South, and it’s been creating space for progressive voices since 1974.

    Stepping inside felt like walking into a sanctuary of stories, strength, and empowerment. I finally picked up a new book (you know how much I love my reads!) and even got to chat with one of the co-owners, Angela. She was so warm and welcoming, and her passion for the space was evident.

    If you’re ever in the Decatur area and love books that challenge, uplift, and inspire — or if you simply want to support a bookstore with deep roots and a beautiful mission — make sure to stop by Charis. It’s more than just a bookstore; it’s a piece of history.

    Until next time — keep reading, keep remembering, and keep supporting spaces that matter.

  • A Weekend to Remember: Graduation, Good Eats, and Family Fun

    Whew—what a weekend! Before I dive into the adventures, let me start with a heartfelt shoutout to the Class of 2025—especially my amazing daughter, who walked across that stage and made her mama proud! Watching her grow from a little girl into a determined young woman ready to take on the world was nothing short of magical. She worked so hard, and seeing her cross that finish line was A+ awesome.

    In today’s world, it’s not always easy—so when our kids win, we celebrate big. Whether it’s your child, niece, nephew, or cousin—congratulations to all the grads out there. Keep pushing them. Keep showing up. These moments matter, and Friday gave us memories I’ll never forget. I’m beyond excited to see what’s next for my graduate!

    To celebrate, we dined at a cool spot tucked away in Duluth, GA—Volcano Steak & Sushi. Now let me tell you, this place is more than just lunch—it’s an experience. You’ve got two options: order from the menu and have your food delivered by a robot (yes, seriously—welcome to the future!), or go the hibachi route where the chef cooks right at your table. We went full hibachi, and our chef? Hilarious and talented. From the moment we walked in to the sizzling, flaming finale, it was a vibe. Definitely another hidden gem worth checking out.

    And the weekend fun didn’t stop there! We wrapped things up at Stars and Strikes in Stone Mountain, where we let loose with arcade games, laser tag, and bowling. And guess who walked away with the W? Yep—your girl right here. (Winning feels even better after hibachi.)

    All in all, it was the perfect mix of celebration, family time, and laughter. Life’s short—so celebrate the wins, cherish your people, and never pass up a good hibachi show.

    Until next time,
    Cece in the City

  • A Weekend of Nature, Food & New Discoveries

    This past weekend was one for the books. From breathtaking trails to mouthwatering tacos, I had the chance to tap into the beauty of Atlanta and all it has to offer. If you’re anything like me — someone who loves discovering hidden gems and creating memories one step at a time — you’ll want to add these spots to your must-visit list.

    🌳 Lullwater Park: A Hidden Oasis in the City

    I finally made my way to Lullwater Park in Atlanta — and let me just say, wow. This place is a dream if you love nature, peaceful vibes, and a little bit of adventure. The park sits on the Emory University campus and is filled with history, beauty, and even a few surprises.

    We crossed a suspension bridge (yes, it shakes a little — kinda scary, kinda thrilling 😅), explored winding trails, and came across a small waterfall that was picture-perfect. But the real kicker? A historic stone tower covered in graffiti that gave the whole area an urban-rustic charm. Fun fact: they were filming something out there while we were walking around, so you know it’s a cinematic spot!

    All around us were people relaxing in trees, chatting in the grass, having picnics, fishing, and even playing a game of dodgeball. I’d never been before, but I’ll definitely be back.

    Honestly, I think I’m turning into a full-on nature girl — and I’m not mad about it. These peaceful moments outside have been everything lately. I’m even thinking about adding Lullwater to our Women Stand Strong group’s next meetup. It’s the perfect place for laughter, reflection, and a walk with good friends.

    🌮 Taco Love at Frontera | Stone Mountain

    The other highlight of my weekend? Finally trying out the newly remodeled Frontera Mex-Mex Grill in Stone Mountain! I’d seen them working on it for a while, and I was excited to see what they did with the place.

    Let me just say, the inside is beautiful — clean, stylish, and welcoming. From the moment I walked in, the customer service was on point. And the food? 🔥 I ordered the steak taco with rice, and it did not disappoint. Flavorful, fresh, and just what I needed.

    It was my first time there, but definitely not my last. I love discovering new restaurants and getting out to support local spots. There’s so much to explore in this city — and I’m here for all of it.

    🌆 What a Weekend

    From scenic bridges and waterfalls to steak tacos and sunset drives — this weekend was a vibe. I’m grateful for these little adventures that make life feel full and rich. And you know me… I’m always on the move, so stay tuned to see what’s next!

    Until then — keep exploring, keep smiling, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

    💫
    — Cece in the City

  • Big News: My Poetry Book is Here! ✨📚

    I can hardly believe I’m typing this… Poems of Passion & Purpose is officially published and out in the world! 🥹💃🏾

    This moment feels surreal—a dream I’ve held in my heart is now a reality. Another goal checked off the list, and I’m still taking it all in.

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    To every single one of you who encouraged me, believed in me, and kept asking, “When’s the book dropping?”—this is for YOU. Your love, support, and patience mean everything. 💖

    I poured my soul into these pages. I hope the words speak to your heart, stir your spirit, and remind you that passion and purpose can live in every line.

    👉🏾 Grab your copy on Amazon: Poems of Passion & Purpose
    Let it meet you where you are—and maybe even where you’re going.

    Thank you for riding this journey with me.
    Here’s to dreaming big, writing boldly, and living with purpose.

    With love & gratitude,
    Cece 🖋️🔥

  • Weekend Vibes + Beltline Adventures

    I hope everyone had a beautiful Easter and an amazing weekend! I actually peeled myself out of the house (yes, in that Georgia heat!) but luckily, there was some much-needed shade along the way.

    I took my girls to the Atlanta Beltline—one of my favorite spots in the city. We strolled through the iconic Krog Street Tunnel, admiring the ever-changing graffiti art, then made our way into Krog Street Market. The vibe? Perfect.

    While exploring, we stumbled across a pizza spot called The Secret Slice. Let me tell you—those slices were giving! Definitely a hidden gem I didn’t know I needed.

    One of the things I love most about the Beltline is how it brings everyone together. People of all backgrounds were out enjoying the sunshine—walking, jogging, skating, biking, scootering, and, of course, walking their dogs. The energy was so positive and refreshing. You could just feel that spring is officially here.

    On our way back, a friend suggested we stop by Jeni’s Ice Creams (how could I say no?). After sampling a few flavors, I landed on a vanilla-based one that was chef’s kiss. I wish I could remember the exact name, but I’ll definitely be back for it!

    Overall, it was a day full of sunshine, good eats, sweet treats, and lots of steps—hello, vitamin D! If you haven’t experienced the Beltline, Krog Market, The Secret Slice, or Jeni’s Ice Creams, make it a point to go this season. You won’t regret it.

    My Steps

    Until next time—stay cool and keep exploring, ATL!