Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967)

82.                May 13, 1935-

The sight of peach buds affects me in a manner I cannot quite describe – almost worshipful, as if I were in the presence of some divine miracle. And at the same time there is with it a certain nostalgic melancholy.

May 17, 1935-

To Buffalo- get 36 assorted chicks.

May 20, 1935 – (Monday)

P.M.   Shopping in Buffalo, with Arthur, afterwards to elevators – wander around awhile, then to foot of Main St. a grain boat unloading at the great-Eastern elevators – a fine brisk wind from the harbor entrance, the sunlight invigorating. I could do few things better for my boy than let his mind be saturated with the wild freedom of the harbor.

Across Michigan Street bridge, & south to Elk; then back, and to island-

May 21, 1935 -

     The first thing I hear these mornings is an oriole, who sings incessantly. This is the song of optimum – full, strong, the expression of a spirit completely confident of itself, of its place in the scheme of things.

     On my morning walk by the rail-road find a considerable quantity of sponge mushrooms. The sight of them never fails to thrill me.