A Slow Start, a Last Sparkle: My Final Full Day in Paris

This morning, I let the rain lull me into a luxurious sleep-in. There was no rush, no plan, no hurry to be anywhere—just the quiet delight of waking up slowly in Paris, knowing I had nowhere to be but right here. Rather than set out for breakfast, I reached into my little mini fridge and unwrapped the tuna sandwich I picked up yesterday from Eric Kayser Vendôme. It was still fresh and satisfying, and the perfect Parisian nibble to start the day gently.

The rain is expected to pass by early afternoon, so I’ll wait until the sky clears to head out around 2:00 PM for a long, slow stroll. I don’t know exactly where I’ll wander yet, but I’m certain beauty will greet me at every turn. Then, I’ll return to my hotel to shower and change before heading out again—this time dressed to dazzle.

Tonight, I have a ticket to Crazy Horse, the legendary Parisian cabaret. I plan to enjoy a lovely dinner nearby and arrive at the show around 9:45 PM, a little flushed from the excitement of the day and the romance of it all. I wonder if I’ll be the only solo lady in the audience. Maybe. But I don’t mind. I’ll sit proudly and soak in every sultry moment, grateful to be exactly where I am.

Would it be lovely to be wrapped in the arms of someone I adore, both of us swept up in the magic of a shared Parisian night? Of course. But I believe with all my heart that he will find me. The one who wants to plan a life of sensual adventure and playful mischief. The one who makes ordinary days shimmer and extraordinary nights unforgettable.

And until that day comes, I’m proud—so proud—of myself for doing all of this on my own. For saying yes to now, not someday. Because someday isn’t guaranteed. But today is.

So I’ll savor this day slowly. I’ll start packing so that I’m not rushed in the morning. I’ll take mental snapshots of the rain-washed streets, the glimmer of anticipation, the quiet confidence I’ve earned. I’ll tuck these moments into the corners of my memory like keepsakes—souvenirs of the woman I’ve become on this trip.

I’ll miss London and Paris, of course. They’ve stretched me, softened me, and stirred something brave and bright inside me. But unlike a love unreturned, these cities have given me gifts that cannot leave me. Their stories are part of mine now.

And I am ready to return home. Not because I need to escape anything—but because I’ve gathered so much. Inspiration. Peace. Strength. Excitement. And a growing list of places I still dream to go.

Italy is waiting in March. Barcelona and Portugal are on the horizon. And Greece—oh yes, Greece—is calling too. The adventures ahead are mine to claim.

Life is beautiful. And I am so grateful I get to live it.

Honey Note:

You don’t have to have it all figured out to enjoy where you are. Trust the twinkle, take the trip, wear the dress, book the show, dance through the doubt, and for heaven’s sake—don’t wait on anyone to bring you joy. Be the spark. Be the flame.

Au revoir, Paris.

But don’t forget me—I never will forget you.

With love, light, and a heart on fire,

MaryNell (aka- Honey)

LivelyByHoney.com

PS: Viens me chercher, si tu l’oses.

(That’s French for “Come get me, if you dare.”)

Catch me if you can, lover. I’ve got places to go and dreams to chase. 💋