Charles E. Burchfield, Journals, August 29, 1913

And today was a day of winds!

In the night I was awakened by the splintering roaring of thunder and for some time I lay, wide awake listening to it and the dashing rain.

The dawn of morning revealed the storms after-math - cool air, clear sky with a few hurrying clouds, and bright sunshine.

My morning bath was supplemented with the sight of a dainty little bird that darted here, and there among Lodges fruit - burdened appletree. He was about the size of a wren, and built much the same.  His olive back head and wings contrasted finely with his bright lemon yellow breast. His eyes, which were black sparkles, were, rimmed with a tiny band of yellow.

Toward Mid-day, the wind, that had been blowing lightly all morning, increased in volume and made the day splended. Paved streets presented scenes of whirling choking dust bits of paper, sticks and other debris. Grass rippled spasmodically; bending trees frantically clawed the air, the flowers on hydrangea bush bobbed rythmically; and top-heavy sunflower stalks swayed majestically. Even in the house the curtains flapped at times - and it was an odd thing: each flapping seemed to have an air of finality about it as tho it was the last one.  And the sunshine was blown hither and thither over the earth, into new and unheard of places.

And when it came to the sunset, the dying wind made a final spurt and blew the suns rays thru the blue grey clouds.

In anticipation of the visit from Frances’ and Louise’ Rochester friends, we had a sort of one legged house cleaning to-night, after which we assembled in the dining room and enjoyed ourselves laughing and talking. 

Charles E. Burchfield,  Friday Aug. 29, 1913