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Un Jour Gris

by habituallychic

05 . 20 . 14
As beautiful as Paris is on a sunny day, it’s even more beautiful when it’s grey. Today is the first day that I’ve been here that it’s rained a little but it’s ok because it just makes everything more romantic.  I had to run over to Monoprix to pick up a few things which was not romantic but I was able to cut through the Jardin du Palais Royal on the way.  (On a side note, if you’ve never been to Monoprix, make sure you visit on your next trip. It’s like a smaller French version of Target.)  It was a little before noon but it was so quiet in the gardens.  A few people were also walking through and a few others were reading.  Every green space in Paris peaceful oasis from the chaos of the city but especially the Jardins du Palais Royal since the surrounding buildings insulate you further from the outside world. Everyday I look around and can’t believe I live here.  If you work hard enough, sometimes dreams do come true. 
The world’s favorite season is the spring, 
All things seem possible in May. 
– Edwin Way Teale

I love that someone brought their own pillow! 

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

16 Comments
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  1. Jackie {York Avenue} May 20, 2014 | 1:07 pm

    It’s all so gorgeous! You are so lucky. I love these pictures so much.

  2. Sophisticated Chic May 20, 2014 | 1:31 pm

    The beauty of things money cannot buy. Great pictures.

  3. ArchitectDesign™ May 20, 2014 | 1:46 pm

    yes on our last trip there we went to Monoprix to stock up on the things our apartment was missing. a tea strainer for our Mariage Freres, big spoon for cooking, etc. The store was pretty convenient I have to say in a very ‘american’ way.

  4. Karena Albert May 20, 2014 | 3:08 pm

    Adore all of the gorgeous roses, Heather!

    Xoxo
    Karena
    The Arts by Karena

  5. Tree May 20, 2014 | 3:25 pm

    Agree! Grey skies anytime of the year increase its romance. And the softness of a Paris autumn brings it up even further by adding a touch of melancholy.

  6. Pat May 20, 2014 | 3:38 pm

    Thank you for all the pictures. We were supposed to be in Paris this and the next 2 weeks but had to cancel because of a family illness–too worrisome to be out of the country. But I still get to see Paris!

  7. Miss Sophisticate May 20, 2014 | 3:58 pm

    Heather, I’m waking up every morning and checking your site first thing for some feel-good vibes and stunning inspiration. I love all of your photos from Paris – you definitely capture the gorgeous, romantic atmosphere perfectly.

    Odd question, but are you using your camera to take these photos? When I plan to go, I want to take photos using my DSLR, but I’m worried about pickpocketers and gypsies since they’re so common in Paris. I’ve never worried when I’ve visited with family because I obviously had family members around me, making it difficult for someone to approach me and try to steal anything. But being alone is a different story. I don’t even know if you’ve thought about this, but just thought I’d ask in case you can offer some advice.

  8. nina | itsazooatthezoo.blogspot.com May 20, 2014 | 8:30 pm

    Beautiful pictures! I feel like I’m there with you. Monoprix is the greatest! Last time I was in France, I bought a bunch of children’s clothes there at great prices and they’re so cute and unusual.

  9. CarolAnne - camdesign May 20, 2014 | 11:41 pm

    thank you for the amazing pictures… small question, is Monoprix a place you could get a hairdryer etc ? thinking I could get one when I get there?
    so enjoying your visit, so looking forward to going myself, maybe by Sept or Oct, fingers crossed xxx

  10. Suzy May 21, 2014 | 2:47 am

    So jealous, and so happy for you at the same time! Enjoy! Shame we’ll just miss each other in Sept. x

  11. Cristopher Worthland May 21, 2014 | 3:06 am

    Oh how I miss the days living in the Netherlands and taking the train to Paris on a whim. The Palais Royal is particulalrly beguiling early in the morning, when there is hardly a soul in sight. And I love Paris under an umbrella of clouds; shapes seem to come sharper into view, as your beautiful photographs reveal. Those roses seduce like Colette’s ghost from Jacques Grange’s apartment overlooking le jardin! Enjoy .. sante!
    Cristopher
    http://www.theartoftheroom.com

  12. Habitually Chic May 21, 2014 | 6:38 am

    CarolAnne – A hairdryer is exactly what I bought at Monoprix among other things. It was on sale because I’m probably the only woman in France who wants to blow dry her hair. It was upstairs with the home and bathroom stuff in the one I visited. Definitely buy some of the wash mit things too!

  13. Habitually Chic May 21, 2014 | 6:40 am

    Miss Sophisicate – I’m actually still in holiday mode so I’ve only taken photos with my iPhone. I’m a little nervous to pull out my big heavy camera because it does make you a target. I bring a big tote bag and hide it inside between shots. Just be careful in the Tuilleries and near the Louvre and along the Seine. You should be ok on the street and in more residential areas. Bonne chance!

  14. MJH Design Arts May 21, 2014 | 11:42 am

    Hi Heaather. So beautiful. Dreams do come true. I go back to “Write It Down, Make It Happen” and you are living proof that it works. xoxo Mary

  15. christina @ greige May 21, 2014 | 10:53 pm

    Heather- monoprix is my favorite, my sister and I call it the French Target! I would not worry too much about your camera- I lug my big one around always when I am there and don’t seem to have trouble. I just make sure I keep my eyes open and zip everything up on the metro..

    Looks beautiful as ever!

    Have fun!

    Christina

  16. Kim May 25, 2014 | 6:27 am

    Heather,
    Thank you for sharing these photos of Paris. I feel as if I am there..oh how I wish.

    I found a newer French movie you may enjoy starring Michael Caine. Lots of scenes from Paris, beautiful quaint places to go-lunch, relax etc. It’s called Last Love and it’s on Netflix. I’m not sure if they have Netflix there or if you have time to view it.

    Take Care!

    Kim