Whenever Christmas rolls around, people go out of their way, slogging through snow and ice, fighting crowds, enduring the bombardment of advertising and promotion, to find the perfect gift. Author and educator Dr.

Ann and Fred Abeles eagerly faced their retirement, but were disappointed with the directions they took. Then they hit the road on two wheels and life became a journey worth taking, moving forward under pedal power.

Mental health is as under attack these days as physical well-being. Randy Fishell, long-time editor of Guide magazine, has written a book about his on-going battle with anxiety disorders. His is a journey of hope. (www.ananxiouskindofmind.com)

There are certain things in life we can’t do without. Oxygen, water, love, and blood. Dr. James Marcum, founder/director of Heartwise Ministries, examines that last item carefully.

Most people determine to live a long and healthy life. How do we do that? Three experts on the subject provide insights and suggestions for assuring that there’s plenty of life in all of our years.

Seventeen years is a long time to battle any disease. Just ask Edwin Gibb. He watched his wife struggle with one that’s particularly tragic – Alzheimer’s. His story of resilience and love inspires and motivates all who hear it.

An epidemic of sexual abuse is impacting society worldwide. Sarah McDugal, author of “One Face,” wades into the sexual abuse culture looking for a way out. www.sarahmcdugal.com www.thehopeofsurvivers.com www.facebook.com/groups/bucketbrigadeabuse/

We’re exhausted from a hard day at work, slip into our pjs, fall into bed, bring the covers up to our chins, sigh, and then wait. And wait. And wait. Nothing. Dr. James Marcum, founder/director of Heartwise Ministries,

Melissa Bradshaw from the It Is Written telecast has developed avenues for getting children interested and involved in Bible Study. The results can be life-changing for both young and old. (www.itiswritten.com)

Today, the average teenager sends 3,339 text messages each month and spends 97 minutes a day playing video games. Add social networking, video watching, and emailing and the results can be damaging to mental and physical health.