Dec. 24: Twas The Night

O Silent Night, Little Neck? Well, maybe not so much with all the horn honking, "ca-chinging" of last-minute gift purchases and general bustling to destinations both far-flung and close-by this Christmas Eve. Even so, here are a few stories, events and announcements guaranteed to get you into the holiday spirit:

1. Contributor Pat Conti has the skinny on the true origins of that mysterious and ubiquitous yellowish yuletide concoction, eggnog.

2. Did you know that besides being the mother of our country, Martha Washington was also well-known by some food historians for her Christmas Pie? Neither did we — that is, until we caught a glimpse of this recipe.

3. And while we're at it, we have the 411 on creating some more of these holiday favorites.

4. Later today we have a list of Christmas services in our area, including times, locations and denominations.

5. And a plea from this humble editor: No matter how you choose to mark this day, have a wonderful, and above all, safe Christmas Eve. Happy Holidays!