Cealle’s First Summer Arts Excursion

There are days that don’t just unfold—they unfold something in you.

This one began with butterflies—those familiar flutters in my tummy that always show up before anything truly meaningful. I’ve learned not to be alarmed by them. In fact, I’d be more concerned if they didn’t show up. Butterflies mean I care. And I cared deeply about this day.

As I arrived at our meeting spot, those flutters met a very different kind of energy: the kind that only kids have right before something unfamiliar. The children—20 in all—were buzzing with that curious anticipation and wide-eyed wonder that only kids can bring to a day of something new. Back and forth chatter, spontaneous laughter, backpacks swinging, sneakers tapping. I could also feel a few  eyes on me—trying to figure out, Who is this woman? What’s she about? What are we doing today?

You’ve gotta love kids for their bold, unapologetic—unscripted nature that keeps everything honest and refreshingly real.

Seeing all those curious little faces stirred up even more fluttering in my belly. So, I leaned into the moment and announced, with a smile, that I had custom Cealle T-shirts for everyone—matching shirts just for our group. And just like that, the room lit up. The kids lit up. We lit up.

And then, it hit me. As I looked around at this group of bright-eyed kids and supportive chaperones—all wearing white Cealle T-shirts—it suddenly became real. The vision I’d held in my heart had come to life. This wasn’t just an idea anymore. It was happening. And it was beautiful. That moment? I’ll carry it with me forever.

Our adventure began at the Whitney Museum, where we explored the powerful work of artist Amy Sherald with the guidance of our educator, Jacqueline. The children were encouraged to express what they saw and felt—and their responses were nothing short of magical. Watching them sketch on the gallery floors, completely absorbed in their own interpretations, I was in awe. They got it. They felt seen.

The museum team handled our spirited crew—who were sometimes headed in 20 different directions—with patience and care. It reminded me of how special it is to be a child. That sense of wonder, of freedom, of not having a single worry in the world. What a gift. If I can protect even a sliver of that little girl inside me, the one who still gets butterflies before big days, I’ll count that as a win.

After the museum, we headed uptown for lunch at a Harlem favorite—Melba’s Southern Cuisine. I chose Southern food because it’s what I grew up on. It’s comfort. It’s family. And for these kids, I wanted the day to end the way every special memory should: with a delicious meal that warms the soul.

And just when I thought the day would begin to wrap up…

The kids had been sipping water all throughout lunch, and I was secretly thrilled—yes, hydrate, children! But then, in the tiniest voice, one of them asked, “Can we order soda?” I thought, What harm could one little Pepsi do after a long day of walking?

When I tell you that bus ride home was on another level, I mean it. It turned into a full-blown party on wheels. I felt partly responsible for all that hyped-up energy and couldn’t help but giggle at the over-the-top volume and fully reloaded vibes. The ride from Harlem turned into a full-on recharge session—next-level energy all the way back to Westchester.

And just when I thought it couldn’t get any more comical, one of the kids found a leaf on the bus—and decided it would be funny to sneak up and rub it by my ear to startle me. I couldn’t even be mad… honestly, it’s the exact kind of thing I would’ve done with my friends as a kid. Too funny.

This day was everything I hoped it would be and more. I saw smiles, laughter, curiosity, and connection. And I saw possibility.

To every supporter, every donor, every Cealle Creative Angel—thank you. Your generosity, in both art supplies and financial gifts, made this day not only possible but unforgettable. Together, we raised a total of $2,222—and none of it could have happened without you. More than just an event, you helped create memories that will last a lifetime.

With love & gratitude,
Tanya (Cealle)