For the first river crossing scenario my group opted not to risk crossing the water and take the long route. This ended up being the correct choice because the trains that tried to save some time ended up having to turn back around because the river was too deep for their oxen to cross. So it turned out that choosing to avoid the river in the first place was actually faster then attempting to cross the river.
For the Indian scenario my group chose to stop and meet with the Indians; this turned out beneficial for us as well. We ended up getting some extra drinking water and some more food. They were also very nice and provided us with some moccasins for our children, so they didn't have to walk barefoot. Stopping to trade with them also made us some new friends and maybe if we run into anymore Indians they will be nice to us as well.
So far this journey has been an adventure; I think it has met my expectations. My family has made many new friends so we will not be all alone when we get to Oregon as well as this has brought my husband and myself closer together. I am however ready to get to Oregon this trip has been very difficult so far with my daughter who is still only 6 months old.
I think we will make it to Oregon eventually. My husband and I are still in good health and we have God to help us get there. We are young and I think we can handle most of what might come our way.