Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve - Today is Christmas Eve!

Christmas Eve is the evening or day before Christmas Day. It occurs on December 24 in Western Christianity and the secular world, and is considered one of the most culturally significant celebrations in Christendom and Western society, where it is widely observed by Christians and by many others, as a full or partial holiday in anticipation of Christmas Day.

Christmas celebrations have long begun on the night of the 24th, due in part to the Christian liturgical day starting at sunset—a practice inherited from Jewish tradition and based on the story of Creation in the Book of Genesis: "And there was evening, and there was morning – the first day."

Tradition holds that Jesus was born at night (Luke 2:6-8).
The idea of Jesus being born at night is reflected in the fact that Christmas Eve is referred to as Heilige Nacht (Holy Night) in German, Nochebuena (the Good Night) in Spanish and similarly in other expressions of Christmas spirituality, such as the song "Silent Night, Holy Night."

Many other varying cultural traditions and experiences are also associated with Christmas Eve around the world—including the gathering of family and friends, the singing of Christmas carols, the illumination and enjoyment of Christmas lights, trees, and other decorations, the wrapping and/or opening of gifts, and general preparation for Christmas Day.

Emergency!, Stupid Criminals, -and- Homeland Insecurity

Emergency! - woman calls 911 when husband refuses to eat dinner
Stupid Criminals - killer trips on baggy pants, falls to death
Homeland Insecurity - TSA releases data on air marshals' Sig Sauer P250 .357 SIG pistols

On this day in history: December 24, 1989 - Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega seeks asylum at the Papal Nunciature. American troops try blasting him with rock music and the sounds of rabbits being slaughtered, but he takes two weeks to emerge. The isthmus groundhog does not see his shadow and is taken by the US Army to Florida lockup where he still resides.

Born on this day in history: December 24, 1905 - Howard Hughes (1905 - 1976) After inheriting the family oil business at 18, Texan Howard Hughes stepped into the role of entrepreneur. He used his fortune to create an empire that included film production, aviation companies, and medical research.

Scripture of the Day: But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people." — Luke 2:10

Video of the Day: "Give Me Jesus" - Jeremy Camp

A cat's love is a wonderful thing. It does, however, come at a cost! Click to enlarge.

Christmas Delicacies, One and All!
Laura and I will be enjoying some choice hors d'oeurvres—including fine cheeses, caviar, and Champagne, but the kitties have nothing to fear: Their larder is full! Notice the lineup of kitty treats awaiting their snacking pleasure! Click to enlarge.

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