There’s something special about a place you keep coming back to—not once, not twice, but a third time—and that’s exactly how I feel about Golden Apple Buffet in Snellville, Georgia. If you know me, you know I love a good buffet, and this spot continues to hit every single time.
From the moment you walk in, you can tell why Golden Apple stays busy. The restaurant is clean, organized, and constantly full of energy—always a good sign when it comes to food. And trust me, the food does not disappoint.
One of my favorite things about Golden Apple Buffet is the variety. This isn’t your average buffet. They offer hibachi made fresh, a solid sushi selection, and even pho with rich, flavorful broth that feels comforting from the first sip. Everything tastes fresh and thoughtfully prepared, which is not always easy to find at a buffet.
Let’s talk seafood—because if you’re a seafood lover like me, this place will make your heart (and belly) happy. The fresh seafood options are one of the main reasons I keep coming back. There’s nothing better than being able to go back for seconds… or thirds… without guilt. That’s the beauty of a buffet done right.
The authentic Chinese dishes are full of flavor, the sushi is well-made, and the pho brings warmth and depth that feels homemade. Even the fruit stood out—fresh, juicy, and perfectly ripe, which is always a pleasant surprise at a buffet.
By the end of my visit, my belly was full and my soul was satisfied. Golden Apple Buffet delivers comfort, variety, and quality all in one place. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual outings, or when you’re just in the mood to eat a little bit of everything.
If you’re ever in Snellville, GA, or nearby, make sure to check out Golden Apple Buffet. Come hungry, take your time, and enjoy the experience—you’ll definitely leave full and happy.
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.
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. 💖
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. 💕
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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! 💫
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! 💛
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. 💫
Looking for a unique Atlanta date night idea or a fun spot to hang out with friends and family? Let me put you on to one of the city’s hidden gems—Illuminarium Atlanta. This immersive experience takes you far beyond Peachtree Street and straight into the stars. 🚀
I recently visited the Space experience at Illuminarium, and wow… it felt like stepping out of Atlanta and into another galaxy. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with your crew, a family-friendly adventure, or something romantic, this spot delivers. Personally, I think it’s the perfect cozy setting for a date night in Atlanta.
The Red Carpet Arrival 🎥
From the moment you walk in, you know you’re in for something special. They roll out the red carpet for photos, giving you that VIP feel before the show even begins. And you already know Cece in the City had to get a few snaps in (because if there’s no photo, did it even happen?).
Boarding the Rocket 🚀
Next, you enter a room that feels like you’re about to blast off into space. It’s cozy, dim, and sets the perfect mood. Whether you’re holding hands with bae or just soaking it all in solo, the anticipation builds.
Immersed in the Galaxy 🌌
Then—boom—you step into the main Illuminarium room, and suddenly you’re surrounded by stars, planets, and galaxies. The walls, floor, and ceiling transform into a breathtaking cosmic journey. The lights are soft and hypnotic, and the music matches the visuals perfectly.
I found myself walking slowly, completely caught up in the moment, imagining what it would feel like to actually float through space. At one point, I looked down and honestly felt like I was standing on another planet. It’s magical, especially if you’ve got a big imagination.
Why It’s Perfect for a Date Night 💕
Here’s why I loved this for a date: the vibe is peaceful, romantic, and relaxing. You can have real conversations without distractions, all while being wrapped up in the beauty of the stars. It’s not your typical movie or dinner—it’s an experience that makes you feel like you’ve truly escaped.
What’s Next at Illuminarium Atlanta 🎶
I already can’t wait to go back. Up next? The Rolling Stones Illuminarium experience. If space was this breathtaking, I can only imagine how electric and legendary that show will be.
Final Thoughts ✨
So, if you’re searching for things to do in Atlanta, romantic date night ideas, or fun immersive experiences, add Illuminarium to your list. Trust me, this is one of Atlanta’s best-kept secrets—a true hidden gem in the city.
Have you been yet? If not, go grab your tickets and prepare to be blown away.
— Cece in the City, exploring Atlanta one adventure at a time 💕
