Hey everyone! Happy Wednesday—midweek and we’re getting somewhere! January has been busy, a little chaotic, and definitely interesting, but that’s how we like it around here. So let’s jump right into Cece on the Scene 🎬📚
🎬 Cece on the Scene: Sinners
Now listen… this movie might be old news to some of y’all, but I’m just getting around to watching Sinners—and whew 😮💨. In case you didn’t know, this film comes with vampiresandtwo Michael B. Jordans. Yes, TWO. History-making in its own right because honestly, one is already enough to cause a distraction.
I don’t usually lean toward vampire or evil-themed movies, but Michael B. Jordan ate this role up. No crumbs left. I’m giving it a solid 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐. Beyond the action and dark energy, the message hit: sometimes the devil is after you, evil will try to creep in, and you’ve got to stay grounded so it doesn’t get the best of you.
If you’re into thrillers with a deeper meaning and haven’t seen it yet, check it out—and let me know what you think.
📚 Cece Reads: Summer in the City by Alex Aster
Now let’s switch gears and get into Cece Reads 📖. I just finished Summer in the City by Alex Aster, and let me tell you—this one was right up my alley. I love books centered around journalists, writers, travel, and romance, and this story delivered all of that.
Another 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ for me. The book reminds us that independence is powerful—go out, chase your dreams, build your success, and be proud of where you’re headed. But at the same time, don’t shut out the good people in your life just because of past experiences. Growth is about balance.
Before we wrap up, I have to give a belated birthday shout-out to my girl Edwina 🥳. Happy belated, sis! Hope you had an amazing day—know that you are awesome, and we definitely need to get out more this year.
And just like that, we’re already coming to the end of January 😮. I hope you’re ready for February and even more adventures with Cece in the City. It’s cold out there, so bundle up, stay warm, and I’ll see you on the next adventure 💙❄️
Hey everyone! Hope you had an amazing week and weekend. Winter is definitely wintering right now ❄️—some places even got snow, while we just got that bone-chilling cold. But enough about the weather… let’s jump into Cece in the City!
📚 Book Talk: People We Meet on Vacation
So I officially finished People We Meet on Vacation, and fun fact—I watched the movie before finishing the book. Now listen… I’m usually that lady who says “the book is always better.” Like historically speaking, books have had the upper hand since, well… forever 📖😌.
But THIS time? Plot twist of the century—the movie actually did it better for me. Shocking, I know! The pacing, the chemistry, the vibes… it worked. That doesn’t mean skip the book though—check out both and decide for yourself.
Now let’s talk movies. I watched THE RIP, starring a powerhouse cast: Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, Sasha Calle, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Scott Adkins, and Kyle Chandler.
The story follows a team of Miami cops who discover millions of dollars hidden in a rundown stash house—and whew 😮💨, trust starts fraying real quick. When money enters the chat, loyalty starts exiting.
Overall rating: 4 out of 5 ⭐ The twists? Solid. The plot? Kept me locked in. Only note—I would’ve loved to see more of the women in action, but it was still a strong watch. Definitely add it to your list.
👑 Women’s Group Outing: January Edition
We also had our FIRST women’s group outing of the year, and let me tell you—it was everything ✨
Theme: Animal Print / Leopard Because historically, leopard print has symbolized power, confidence, and royalty—and that’s exactly the energy we’re carrying into the new year.
🐆 Bold 🐆 Fearless 🐆 Queen-like
Every woman received a crown—because let’s be clear, you don’t find crowns… you ARE one 👑.
We also did Letting Go Plates, a powerful little ritual where we wrote down everything we’re leaving behind and NOT bringing into 2026. (Yes, we’re clearing space early!)
🍽️ Dinner Stop: Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar
We headed to Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar, and for many of us, it was our first time. The reviews from the table? ✔️ Food was good ✔️ Vibes were strong ✔️ DJ was VERY raw 😅
At times I was like “oh wow,” and other times I was definitely grooving 💃🏾. The place was packed, full of life, and our waiter stayed on point checking on us—which always earns bonus points.
We did have a 2-hour limit, but we made it work, handled business, laughed, talked, and soaked it all in. It was a much-needed outing.
💕 Passing the Torch
One of my favorite parts? My daughters were inspired to start their own women’s group with their friends—same theme, their own section, their own energy. And yes… they had a GREAT time 🥹💖. Love to see it.
✨ Missed the Outing? No Worries
You can still do your own Letting Go Plate at home:
Use a real plate and break it after
Or use a plastic plate—write on it, cut it up, or even keep it Totally your choice.
📸 Be sure to take a picture and share it—I’ve included a photo for inspiration.
Remember the theme: Bold. Fearless. Queen-like. Leopard energy is wild, focused, fierce, and confident… that’s the vibe 🐆👑
💐 Weekly Thank You: Women Who Inspire
One thing I love doing each week is giving flowers while they can still be smelled 🌸. This week, I want to send a big thank you to two women who continue to inspire, empower, and pour into me through their storytelling.
✨ Elizabeth Gilbert Her book—and later the movie—Eat, Pray, Love truly left a mark on me. Historically, it became a cultural moment for women learning to choose themselves, explore the world, and heal out loud. The themes of self-discovery, courage, and starting over deeply resonated with me and still do. It reminded me that it’s okay to pause, wander, and find joy in unexpected places.
✨ ReShonda Tate As an author, ReShonda Tate keeps me entertained, engaged, and turning pages. Her storytelling feels real, relatable, and powerful. Every time I pick up one of her books, I know I’m in for a good read—she has a gift for pulling you in and keeping you there. Authors like her continue to remind me how important our stories are.
To both of these women—thank you for inspiring me, empowering me, and reminding me of the power of words. Your work matters, and it continues to pour into so many of us 💫
✊🏾 Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
This week, it’s also important to pause and honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—not just the name we hear every January, but the man, the mission, and the movement.
I’m especially grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and Museum here in Atlanta. Walking through the space, reading the exhibits, and learning more about his life gave me a deeper understanding of his courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to justice. It’s one thing to learn about him in books, but standing in a place filled with history makes it hit differently.
Dr. King reminded us that change starts with courage, community, and love—even in the face of resistance. His legacy continues to inspire generations to speak up, stand firm, and lead with purpose.
I’m thankful for the chance to learn, reflect, and carry those lessons forward ✨
Stay tuned for the next Cece in the City—more books, more scenes, more vibes coming soon 💫
Hey everyone! I hope you’re doing well and gearing up for the holidays and the exciting new year ahead. This season always brings a mix of reflection, gratitude, and togetherness—and I want to take a moment to share a few highlights and heartfelt thoughts.
As we think about the holidays, I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity we had to partner with DJ Ms. Eclectic for the Good Vibes Giveback for the Season. Together, we were able to bless over 60 people, and that alone made this season extra meaningful. Huge thanks to her for including us and allowing Cece in the City/Where It Begins to be a part of spreading love, joy, and good vibes to others. Giving back always reminds me what this season is truly about.
Now let’s get into Cece on the Scene 🎬 This weekend, I finally made it to the movies to see The Housemaid. I had already read the book—and it was really good—so I was excited to see how the movie would compare. And honestly, it didn’t disappoint. I haven’t been to the movies in a long time, but AMC made the experience extra enjoyable with their comfy recliner seats and beautiful interior. If you haven’t seen it yet, I definitely recommend checking it out—especially if you’re a bookworm like me. I’m giving it 4 out of 5 on the scenes ✔️
Speaking of books, let’s talk about my latest read 📚 I recently finished All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert. Now, Eat, Pray, Love will always be a favorite of mine (both the book and the movie), but this one was very different. This book dives deep into her life, her friendship, and struggles with addiction. It was sad, raw, and powerful all at once. While it wasn’t an easy read, it was meaningful, and I’d give it 3 out of 5. Still worth checking out if you enjoy emotional and reflective storytelling.
The holidays are also a tender time for me. I lost my mom around this time in 2017, and not having her here during the holidays is always hard. There’s a sadness that comes with the season, but I choose to focus on gratitude. I’m thankful for the memories, the pictures, and the love that never fades. She may be gone, but she lives in me, and I truly believe she’s my angel watching over me.
As we move through this season, I encourage you to be thankful for life, cherish your moments, and treasure your family, friends, and loved ones. Time is precious, and love is everything.
Thank you for continuing to follow along with Cece in the City. Stay tuned for more, and from my heart to yours—Happy Holidays ✨
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?
Ever since the very first Final Destination hit theaters in 2000, I’ve been hooked. There’s just something about the franchise’s eerie premonitions, butterfly-effect chaos, and those jaw-dropping death scenes that keep you on the edge of your seat—and nervously side-eyeing everyday objects. So when I heard they were bringing the series back with a brand-new film, I had to see it. And let me tell you—it did not disappoint!
This latest installment takes everything we loved from the originals and cranks it up a notch. I still don’t know how the writers come up with these insane, unexpected ways for fate to strike, but they had me gasping, laughing, and clenching my seat the whole time. The creativity behind each scene is next-level—almost like Death itself has a twisted sense of humor.
What really blew my mind? I found out after watching it that there was a 4D version available. 4D! Can you imagine experiencing those suspenseful moments with moving seats, bursts of air, and maybe even a splash or two? If I had known, I would’ve definitely signed up for the full immersive ride. But even in 2D, the film was a wild, thrilling journey.
For me, it’s an easy 5 out of 5. The Final Destination franchise never fails—it knows exactly how to play with your fears and entertain you in the process. If you’re a longtime fan like I am, you’ll love this new chapter. And if you’re new to the series, buckle up—because fate doesn’t like to be cheated.
Starring Tom Hardy, Jessie Mei Li, Timothy Olyphant, and Forest Whitaker Rated: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Okay, listen up, action lovers—Havoc on Netflix is not one to sleep on. I finally carved out some time to watch it after my dad told me, “You’ve gotta check this one out.” And when my dad recommends something, especially an action flick, I listen. He knows his stuff.
Let me tell you—Tom Hardy does not disappoint (when does he ever?). From gritty alley chases to hand-to-hand combat that’ll make you tense up in your seat, Havoc brings the kind of chaotic energy that action fans live for. Jessie Mei Li held her own, Timothy Olyphant was smooth but dangerous, and Forest Whitaker gave it that veteran intensity we love to see.
I gave it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Why not 5? Well, I’m a tough critic when it comes to story flow—but the action sequences? Top tier. There’s something satisfying about a movie that doesn’t waste time getting to the grit, and Havoc dives right into the mess. It’s raw, it’s fast-paced, and it’s got just enough heart to keep you locked in.
After I finished it, I immediately texted my daughter and said, “You HAVE to watch this.” Guess what? She did—and yep, she agreed. We both said, “Now that’s how you do action.”
So, if you’re like me and love a good, gritty, adrenaline-pumping movie that keeps you glued to the screen, do yourself a favor and check out Havoc on Netflix. Get your popcorn, turn the volume up, and buckle in.
Now tell me—have you seen Havoc yet? What’s your favorite Tom Hardy role so far? Drop it in the comments! 🎥🍿
Y’all know I’m always blogging about books, entertainment, travel, hidden gems, and movies—and today, I’ve got one that had me glued to the screen with popcorn in one hand and emotions in the other.
I just watched Exterritorial on Netflix, and whew—if you love action-packed movies with a twist of mystery and emotion, this one’s for you. Now listen, I love a good action movie. Explosions? Yes. Intense chase scenes? Absolutely. But if there’s one thing I hate, it’s seeing women hurt or dismissed—especially moms.
This film follows a mother who’s desperately searching for her missing little boy. And let me tell you, her mama bear energy is unmatched. But instead of people helping her, they hit her with the “You’re delusional” line. Uh, excuse me?! She knows her child, and she’s not backing down. I won’t spoil whether she’s right or not, but just know—it’ll have you questioning everything until the very end.
Now, did I give it a 5-star rating? Almost! I gave it 4 stars because honestly… what mama in 2025 is leaving her young kid alone with the world being what it is? That part had me side-eyeing the screen. But despite that, she was STRONG, BRAVE, and most importantly—she kicked some serious butt. Like, real “Don’t mess with a mother” vibes. 😂
It’s got action, a strong female lead, a story that pulls at your heart, and just enough suspense to keep you guessing.
So tell me—have you seen it yet? What did you think? Would you have gone as hard as she did for your child?
Let’s talk movies, mama power, and real talk in the comments. 💥🍿💬
Happy February, the month of love and self-discovery! As we dive into the second month of the year, let’s take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences we shared in January.
Our New Year kicked off with a bang as we embarked on a journey of self-reflection with Vision Jars. Each jar held the potential for personal growth and exciting adventures. I’m thrilled to share a glimpse into my own jar revelations. For my self-love goal, I set my sights on enhancing my blogging skills – a journey that promises exciting discoveries and creative expression.
Speaking of adventures, I treated myself to a cinematic delight by fulfilling my jar’s directive to take myself to the movies. “The Color Purple” musical was an absolute gem, and if you’re a fan of musicals and the classic movie, you’re in for a treat! The stellar performances left me in awe, and I’m sure you’d love it too.
Another jar revelation led me to engage in meaningful outreach. I spent time at a local senior home, contributing to their community and making lasting connections. Bingo with the residents brought joy and laughter, creating memories that warm my heart.
As we step into this new month, the anticipation builds for fresh goals and self-love adventures. If you’re feeling inspired, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey! Share your aspirations and let’s support each other in making February extraordinary.
On a different note, I’ve been relishing my time at Crunch in Tucker – a fantastic gym where I’ve been breaking a sweat and enjoying invigorating Zumba classes. Trust me; it’s a fitness haven worth exploring!
Last but certainly not least, our book club delved into the captivating world of “All the Light We Cannot See” in January. If you haven’t joined CeCe’s Book Club yet, you’re missing out on thought-provoking reads and engaging discussions. Find us on Facebook and Instagram for more details!
Let’s make February a month filled with love, positivity, and exciting endeavors. Join us on this journey, and together we’ll make it extraordinary!
As we bid farewell to 2023 and welcome the dawn of a brand new year, we can’t help but reflect on the incredible moments we’ve shared together. The highlight of our past month has undoubtedly been the gripping series “Black Cake” on Hulu. If you haven’t had the chance to indulge in this cinematic masterpiece, make it your priority for the upcoming year. The thrilling narrative has not only kept us on the edge of our seats but has also encouraged us to delve into the captivating world of the Black Cake book. Trust me, it’s a journey you won’t want to miss.
And speaking of literary adventures, our book club has chosen a phenomenal piece for January: “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is not only a literary gem but has also been adapted into a compelling Netflix series. So, whether you’re a bookworm or a binge-watcher, there’s something for everyone.
As we step into 2024, let’s not forget to infuse our lives with positivity and purpose. Our vision jars have been set up to guide us throughout the year. Each month, we commit to one act of self-care, one goal to work towards, and one outreach activity involving family or friends. It’s a holistic approach to personal growth and building meaningful connections.
This year promises to be extraordinary, and we invite you to join us on this exciting journey. Stay tuned for more adventures as we explore the hidden gems of Atlanta and its surrounding cities. From local eateries to cultural events, we’ll be uncovering the richness and diversity of our community.
So, here’s to a year filled with joy, growth, and unforgettable experiences. Let’s make 2024 our best year yet! Don’t miss out on the upcoming blog posts and updates. Until then, embrace the possibilities, and let the adventure begin! 🚀✨
Title: Helen Hunt: A Versatile Talent and Empowering Presence in Hollywood
Introduction: Helen Hunt, an actress of exceptional range and talent, has graced the screens of both television and film for several decades. Known for her versatile performances, Helen has captivated audiences with her depth, authenticity, and ability to portray a wide array of characters. In this blog post, we explore the life and career of Helen Hunt, celebrating her contributions to the entertainment industry, her remarkable achievements, and her enduring influence as an empowering figure.
Early Life and Beginnings: Born on June 15, 1963, in Los Angeles, California, Helen Elizabeth Hunt was raised in a family with a strong artistic background. Her father was a renowned director and acting coach, which provided Helen with a nurturing environment to cultivate her talent from an early age. She made her acting debut in the 1970s, appearing in various television series and films.
Television Success and the Rise to Prominence: Helen’s breakthrough came in the 1990s with her portrayal of Jamie Buchman in the hit television series “Mad About You.” Her brilliant comedic timing, chemistry with co-star Paul Reiser, and relatable portrayal of a modern woman navigating career and relationships garnered critical acclaim and made her a household name. The role earned her numerous awards, including four Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe.
Oscar-Winning Performances: While Helen Hunt’s success on television was undeniable, her talent also shone on the big screen. In 1997, she delivered a career-defining performance in the film “As Good as It Gets,” starring alongside Jack Nicholson. Her portrayal of a single mother and waitress earned her widespread acclaim, culminating in an Academy Award for Best Actress. The Oscar win cemented her status as a formidable talent in both mediums.
Challenging Roles and Artistic Exploration: Throughout her career, Helen Hunt has continuously sought out challenging and diverse roles. From playing a sex surrogate in “The Sessions” to exploring the complexities of relationships in “The Miracle Season” and “Ride,” she has showcased her versatility and commitment to portraying multidimensional characters. Helen’s ability to bring depth and authenticity to her performances has earned her the respect and admiration of both critics and audiences alike.
Empowering Women in Hollywood: Helen Hunt’s success in the entertainment industry is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and dedication. As a female artist, she has broken barriers and paved the way for future generations of actresses. Her ability to command leading roles, produce her projects, and challenge stereotypes has empowered women in Hollywood and encouraged the industry to embrace stories that are authentic and diverse.
Conclusion: Helen Hunt’s illustrious career stands as a testament to her talent, versatility, and unwavering commitment to her craft. From her early beginnings in television to her Oscar-winning performances on the big screen, she has consistently delivered memorable and powerful portrayals. Beyond her achievements, Helen Hunt serves as an empowering figure in Hollywood, advocating for the representation and empowerment of women in the industry. Her enduring legacy as an actress and an influential presence will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences for years to come.
