Charles Burchfield, Journals, January 1, 1963

1963

January 1 – Tuesday –

Not quite so cold – mostly sunny – but at times a swath of gray blanket cloud.

A day of inactivity – we watched the Tournament of Roses for a while – from being mildly interesting it progressed rapidly to boring – The work that goes into these floats is appalling –

About 1:30 to Old Orchard for dinner – very few people there – it was very cozy and pleasant, several big logs burning in the fire-place. The Roofs as usual very cordial.

Afterwards for the usual drive thru Griffins Mills [hamlet in the town of Aurora] – The beauty of the day and winter landscape. I cannot describe in anything but well-worn cliches – better unwritten. It seemed to us we have never seen such unusual effects and beauty –

On our way north Bertha suggested we drive out the Big Tree and take a look at the Sea Crest Supper Club that Mrs. Roof had told us about – we went by way of S.W. Blvd. to see also Steak Hut (Near route 78)

The lake covered solidly in roughened ice, which was thrown into sharp relief by the level rays of the setting sun – Everywhere it seemed as if the Arctic regions could not possibly be any more wintry and beautiful – it was easy to imagine that the sun was just making its first apperance, after months of total darkness –

Late P.M. Clara called from Kent thanking for the picture.

Evening Mart called saying she had arrived home safetly after a good visit and trip –

Charles Burchfield, Journals, January 1, 1963