Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, April 26, 1964

After church to the Steak Hut —

Then for a little drive — out the lake road to Pleasant avenue to see the dog-toothed violets — In countless numbers — also a find a small colony at the base of a large tree, of spring-beauties. Most of them the deep pink variety — We agreed they were second only to hepaticas as “the” flower of spring.

About 6:00 we drove down into the country to see the moon (full tonight) rise over the Zoar Valley — (down via Rte 75 to Collins Center)

The country seemed especially beautiful, lit up by the declining sun — (a maple woods in particular

Arrived at the Big Woods about 7:00. We parked alongside it near the western end, facing east with a view over Zoar Valley.

We had planned to eat outside, but the southeast breeze had too much chill in it — So we ate our sandwiches, tea etc. in the car, watching the sunset in reverse, that is, on the eastern world as the light changed from yellow to gold, and then as the sun disappeared in the thickening mists, the warm light became more diffuse and mellow — of particular beauty were the various young trees with their pointed up-shooting branches, such as various kinds of poplars, young beeches etc.

It was a delightful hour — robins could be [heard singing] robustly, crows kept up a continual raucous clatter in the darkening woods to the north. Peeper’s shrill chorus from woodland ponds.

Then, when the mellow afterglow was almost felt, rather than seen, the pale orange moon appeared in the thickening mists, already about the range of low hills beyond the valley.

As we intended going home by way of the valley to Trevett Rd, we decided we should leave before it was completely dark —

Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, April 26, 1964