Monday

Monday marked a week since one of Yvonne’s most demanding operations. Tony spent the day looking after her, working on administrative tasks in the meantime. Overall, Monday was a quiet day at home.

Tuesday

Tony and Yvonne, enjoying their last free day of the working week, travelled to Berwick for a refreshing walk along the coast. The Spittal beach, known for its cold water and strong winds, also affords the best sea views in the Borders area. The fresh sea breeze benefited them both—particularly Yvonne, who has spent a lot of time in bed recently. Yvonne is reluctant to sit in the house doing nothing, so the walk was perfect for her. Later in the day, Tony, inspired by his morning walk, painted for a few hours in his home studio.

Wednesday

Wednesday was a hard day for Yvonne, ill enough to warrant a trip to the local hospital. She was, understandably, very sick after her surgery. These treatments take their toll, even on patients as physically strong as Yvonne. Tony finds it difficult to accept that not every day is going to be a good one for his wife.

Thursday

Thursday was a comparatively better day, Tony’s first in the Gallery this week. It was a quiet day; Tony whiled away the hours in his studio, working on his endless list of commissions. He even had time to work on his current paintings, which he hopes to exhibit in September.

Friday

Friday was an even better day. At her consultation with hospital staff, Yvonne received some good news: the long, hard battle with cancer is finally tipping in her favour. The talented doctors involved in her treatment are close to eradicating her cancer altogether. The war is not yet over, but at least there is now an end in sight.

Saturday

Saturday was probably the most productive day of the week. Early in the morning Tony met with Jenni Bell, a young local artist. He has been advising her for years now. Jenni, now leaving for art college, is so talented that Tony thinks she should skip formal education altogether and enter the art world.