A Window in Paris and a Heart Wide Open

This morning, I woke up in Paris to a bright, sunny day—temperatures in the perfect 70s, the kind that make you feel like anything is possible.

I started with a leisurely breakfast buffet at my hotel, Castille Paris – Starhotels, then returned to my room to slowly get ready for a day of sightseeing. I cracked the window open and let the fresh air roll in, the soundtrack of the city drifting up from the street below—bustling footsteps, clinking dishes from cafés, the occasional scooter zipping by. Life here feels alive in every direction.

Yes, there’s more rain coming this week, but I don’t mind. I packed my raincoat and umbrella, and I love how a little drizzle gives permission to dress more comfortably. It’s all part of the charm. And truth be told, this trip is already teaching me what I’ll do differently when I pack for Italy in March. Smarter. Lighter. Still stylish, of course.

But in the stillness of this morning, I found myself thinking about what’s missing in my life.

And honestly? Not much.

My life is full—of meaning, movement, memories in the making. But what I am missing is perhaps the most essential thing we all long for:

True love.

Not just butterflies or romance. I’m talking about my person—the one who wants to build a life with me, create memories, share quiet mornings and wild adventures. The one who makes ordinary things feel extraordinary just by being there.

I know what I want. He’s silly and kind, strong and outdoorsy, humble but captivating. I want a little mystery—the kind that’s just for me. I want someone who’s not afraid of commitment, who isn’t lukewarm. Because I don’t share well, and I’m not here for halfway love. I’m on my back nine, and I want the real thing. The big thing.

The kind of man who stops me in my tracks, sweeps me off my feet, makes me tingle, and doesn’t ever stop doing it. I want passion and playfulness. I want depth and devotion. And yes, I want a little side of naughty. 😉

He’s my best friend and my favorite adventure. The one I can’t wait to come home to—and the one I can’t keep my hands off.

In other words? I want it all.

And here’s the beautiful truth:

Even as I long for this, my life is still rich and wonderful. This longing doesn’t diminish what I already have—it just means my heart is ready. Ready for someone to do life with me.

It’s taken me a while to accept that the person I once believed was “the one” wasn’t right for me after all. But I’ve accepted it. I’ve healed. And now, standing in this beautiful city with sunshine on my shoulders and possibility in the air…

My heart is wide open.

There’s no rush. I’m not searching—I’m simply open. Because I know I’m not meant to walk this world alone. And somewhere out there, someone is looking for me too.

So I’ll keep living, loving, laughing, and dancing in the rain (literally, this week!)—until our paths cross.

And when they do?

Oh, honey. I have a feeling we won’t be able to stop smiling.

🍯 Honey Note:

You don’t have to go looking for love when you are love. Just keep living boldly, joyfully, beautifully—and trust that the right one will recognize your light and never let it go. ✨ He’ll find you. And when he does, you’ll both know.

With a heart wide open,

MaryNell 🥂💋 (aka 🐝 Honey)