Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, April 7, 1965

First hepatica in bloom —

A very mild day — sun shining — all the birds seemed to go ‘mad’ with singing — Once I saw a male grackle courting a female, spreading his wings and tail, and strutting for her approval — She however, without even looking at him flew away — he, remaining behind looking very crestfallen.

When I came in at noon, Bertha called me to the front door to look at the crocuses. They were a gorgeous sight — not only the great masses closest to the house but around the crabapple tree, — like yellow & purple jewels (only last night there were nothing but green shoots there.)

Since this was work-day, I suggested we go to the Lodge for lunch. By now it was rapidly clouding over. Just as we were coming out, a thunderstorm broke. Heavy torrential rains — we did not go straight home, but drove around awhile to savor the storm —

In Studio, made a few changes on the “North Woods” picture, then put it away — Other odd jobs — Got out the drawing of the ‘great melting snow-bank’ made last year. I hope this year to get at least a large cartoon made of the idea. (that of an elemental picture of the great sun of spring shining on a gigantic snow-bank on a rocky hill or mountain, the rivulets of melting snow glittering in the sun, twinkling down a mountain-side destined to become five or six great rivers —

Charles E. Burchfield, April 7, 1965