What a whirlwind the last few months have been both here in Biscuit Land and in the wider world! Over the last few days we’ve all been slowing down and unwinding ready for Christmas, and this is the first proper break I’ve had since I went to Spain with Chopin back in June.

It’s been lovely spending time hanging out at the castle with my friends and family. Monkey the Cat has been enjoying playing with scraps of wrapping paper left over from the preparations and, at two-and-a-half, my niece Bean is starting to get very into all things Christmassy. She has particularly enjoyed decorating and re-decorating the tree.

Having some time off has meant I’ve had a chance to indulge in my favourite pastime
– drawing.

This has been made immeasurably easier and less stressful by my new iPad. Crucially it has a back button so I can tic and mess things up without ruining all my work.

Over the last few days I’ve been making a visual record of our festive preparations and with everything at the castle all set up for the Festive Season the drawing is now complete.

On the right of the colourful image the Christmas tree stretches from floor to ceiling. King Russell, Monkey the Cat, Bean and Leo are decorating it with brightly coloured baubles. In the foreground Shiloh, Zackaiah and Ruby are playing Dog Bingo, while Ruth wraps presents behind them.

Touretteshero is at the centre of the image in her blue and white superhero costume, looking through the decorations. Behind her Fat Sister and Leftwing Idiot are sharing the sofa. Fat Sister is playing on her phone while Leftwing Idiot has a nap with cuddly penguins Avi and Sticker.

Chopin is drinking tea surrounded by her lamp collection. In the far-left corner, Laura is hanging up biscuit-bunting while Joyce naps in a chair and the lamp-post looks in, smiling through the window.

Whatever you’re doing this festive season, here’s wishing you much love, laughter, and of course biscuits.