Monday

Another month is almost over. For Tony, 2013 has been both the shortest and the longest year he can remember. It’s an early start to the day; Tony and Yvonne are travelling to Edinburgh for radiotherapy treatment. Though radiotherapy is stressful in many ways, it is not as difficult as Yvonne’s prior treatment. No sickness, no pain; no split fingernails or other idiosyncratic symptoms. This last battle should be among the easiest.

Tuesday

Another early start. Tony and Yvonne are returning to Edinburgh, as they must for another 20 days or so. After treatment, Tony and Yvonne visit Leith, where Tony draws inspiration for a new commission. Back in Kelso, Tony is able to transfer his inspiration from his mind to the canvas. A good day.

Wednesday

The first half of the day is, as usual, consumed by travel and treatments. Yvonne has had three treatments so far; only 22 remain. Tony swings by the Art House on his way home for some studio time, discovering that a snowman painting has been reserved in the lead-up to Christmas. Another good day.

Thursday

Poor weather makes for a long, gloomy trip to the hospital. Tony and Yvonne arrive on time, but only just. Later, post-treatment, both have a soup and stew at the Sun Inn; very nice indeed, Tony reports. At home, Tony works on his snowman paintings. They’re the easiest to work on after a long day. He likes the way this one in particular is going; it’s called Homage to Gran.

Friday

A reprieve on Friday. Fiona Hall, a friend, takes Yvonne to Edinburgh. The peace doesn’t last, however, as a boiler in Tony’s studio bursts. Thankfully, Davey was on hand to sort the problem. The rest of the day is spent painting. Tony makes good progress on two paintings. A lovely day for both Tony and Yvonne.

Saturday

No travelling on Saturday. Instead, Tony returns to his studio in the Art House. He spends the day interacting with friends who pop in for a cup of tea and a chat. Tony still cannot believe that this is his job. Saturday is a magical day.