5 Things You Need to Know Today: Dec. 19

Here is a list of 5 things you need to know today:

1. Sunny Skies: According to the National Weather Service, today will be mostly sunny with a high near 48 degrees and a west wind between 13 and 17 mph. Tonight will be mostly cloudy with a low around 39 degrees and a west wind between 10 and 13 mph.

2. Christmas is Coming: Is the whole family coming for Christmas dinner and you’re slightly panicked?  Relax and make a booking at one of the local restaurants for Christmas Eve or Day. If you would prefer to enjoy Christmas in the warmth of your own home, pick up some fine fare to eat around your own festive table. Click for some suggestions.

3. House Hunt: This week in and , home buyers can take advantage of a deal. Prices on some houses have dropped. Click to check prices and photos of some of the homes available.

4. Stroo-fa-la: This time of year, some folks have visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads. Others dream of Christmas cookies, eggnog or pie. But what really does it for me is a little honey-dipped dough slice of heaven Italians call struffoli. Click to read more about this delicious dessert and the tradition of its creation.

5. Warm Up with Soup: As the weather gets colder, there is nothing better than a hot cup of soup in the middle of a winter day. For more than 15 years, Gary Sable has been producing the best soups from the most unassuming joint in downtown Red Bank. Click to learn more about this bite nearby.