5 Things to Know This Morning

Dec. 21, 2012 — -- Your look at the five biggest and most buzz-worthy stories of the morning.

1. House Fails to Vote on GOP Fiscal Cliff Option

The House did not vote on the Republican's Plan B option to avert the fiscal cliff on Thursday because they could not get enough votes. Members will now leave Washington until after Christmas.

2. Over 2000 Reports of Severe Weather Cited

More than 200 reports of severe weather and 4 tornadoes have been reported over the past 2 days alone. The most significant tornado damage was in Mobile, Alabama with winds up to 110 miles per hour.

3. Obama to Observe Moment of Silence for Sandy Hook

President Obama will observe a moment of silence at the White House this morning to honor the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. The moment of silence will come at 9:30 a.m. EST, one week after 20 children and six adults were killed at the school.

4. Playing 'Hard to Get' Pays Off?

New research shows that if a man or woman is looking for a serious relationship, it pays for them to play hard to get. According to a study published in the European Journal of Personality, playing hard to get attracts a higher-quality mate with commitment to a long-term romance.

5. FAA Clears Santa's Sleigh for Global Trek

The Federal Aviation Administration announced Thursday that Santa's reindeer-powered sleigh, Santa One, is cleared for his annual trek around the globe. Santa and his reindeer will be cruising at an altitude of 50,000 feet on Christmas Eve.