Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967)

71. Cowlesville, where I had a widespreading view to the east of the heat-hazed landscape. The haze divided the landscape into many layers, one lighter than the preceding one. Here I ate my lunch.

     Remembering the little willow bordered stream near the Liberia Rd, where this spring (March 20) - I made a water-color, I drove there hoping for inspiration, I found none, but I did find a patch of sun-dew in a marsh; the first I ever saw around here.

Attacked by bees which I mistook for stinging flies.

     I drove on to where the road turns north to Marilla, and here as a last resort, I determined to make a painting. After I had my easel set up, the heat pouring up from the meadow was so intense, I almost got sick at my stomach and felt like giving up. However, I kept on, and painted until after five. With my face burning, and a dull headache, I set out for home.

     By now a great storm had formed in the south east and was a magnificent sight, with the pale sunlit trees and fields up against its deep blue-black clouds.[i]

                   June 12 -

     I cannot get used to the girls working. Mary Alice started Monday on her job at the drug-store, and Martha will start tomorrow as "bus-girl" at Lorenzo's.

     More hot, humid weather - it is impossible to move, without having the sweat pour off one.[ii]

                   June 15 -

     (CD) came early this morning (before I was out of bed) to tear down the play-house. It has gone on all day; spent the day sorting lumber and carrying what I wanted