By: Trump Vang

Imagine yourself in a situation where you’d have to travel across a river. This could be anywhere from a simple land travel obstacle to a dangerous and cautious situation. Either way, knowing how to cross a river may not be integral, but will be helpful in specific situations.

Now one may wonder how they got themselves stuck in this situation. There could be a multitude of reasons, but the focus at this very moment should be placed within crossing the river. There is a reason why you’re crossing it, and that reason is pushing you to cross it as fast as possible. Regardless, here’s a guide to cross a river:

1) Assess your Situation: 

Look at what you’ve got around you as there may be things that are helpful to you in their own way. Even if it may seem ordinary, there are things that can help you in the most dire of situations.

For instance, when a woman, Angela Hernandez, found herself in danger in a sinking car, she was able to escape and find her way to land. Finding herself trapped, she scourged for clean drinking water. Using a garden hose from her car, she was able to collect water, and through this she was able to survive through the ordeal. Hearing from Angela’s story, it’s important to pay attention to your surroundings and know where you are and what you can do.

2) Plan your Travel

Rivers are not easy obstacles to cross. You will need a plan to cross a river, and it may be extensive depending on the width you’d need to travel. On average, rivers flow at a rate of 5 km an hour (3 miles an hour), so be wary of these issues.

Depending on the items you’ve picked up, you can plan ahead of what you’re thinking through. For example, a river with a low enough width can be crossed with a log or a “bridge”. If it has low enough depth or is flowing slow enough, it’s possible that you could swim across it. Assess and plan using the knowledge you’ve got.

Remember, it’s dangerous to head into a situation blindfolded. Make sure you know what you’re doing. Plan thoroughly and ensure that you cover each step and have back up plans in case something goes amiss.

3) Cross the River

This is it. The moment that you’ve been waiting for. Cross the RIver! You’ve planned ahead up until this point, and it’s led you to this. Drop the rest of your fears and anxieties, as this is the main step to crossing a river. Whether or not you decided to cross a fallen log, create your own boat, or plain out swim, you’ve stood up against your river crossing issues and have been able to beat them whole-heartedly.

Hey, if you’ve made it this far, you’ve most likely crossed the river! Congrats to you and your ability to do so! Now face the world with your motives and lead yourself to success by conquering problems through river crossing.

For more information on Angela’s Story, please visit:

• https://www.godupdates.com/angela-hernandez-found/

If you’re looking for more information on rivers, please visit:

• https://worldrivers.net/2020/03/28/how-fast-are-rivers/

      By: Calla Fragassi

As of this year, over 90 million households in the U.S. own a pet. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of pets in the U.S. skyrocketed as people searched for companionship during the times of uncertainty. They are seen as part of the family and can mean as much to you as any human can. These pets can range from common dogs or cats to exotic spiders or reptiles. This is a list of the top 6 most common pets in the United States, according to Pethelpful.com:

1. Dogs

The most commonly owned pet in the United States are dogs, which should come as no surprise to most. It is estimated that there are approximately 76 million pet dogs in the United States, and over 46 million households own one. Dogs are the most common pets because they are known as “man’s best friends” and are perfect companions and additions to the family.

2. Cats

At number 2 are cats. Cats are in 31 million households in the United States and are loved for their cute and soft appearance as well as being playful and sociable. They are clean, live long lives and are quiet pets that are also low maintenance and are cheaper compared to dogs.

3. Fish

In the United States, fish are number 3 as the most popular pets in the U.S., and 12% of households in the U.S. own one or more fish. They are easy pets if you don’t have the time or space for a common pet. Fish have also been known for reducing stress when you watch them swim in an aquarium. These are a perfect fun and exciting pets to look at as they can come in different colors, shapes and sizes.

4. Birds

Birds are great pets for being low cost, and live long lives. They can provide social interaction, stress-relief and are good for mental health. Birds easily form close connections with their owners and are extremely loyal. They love being cuddled and are very easy to train!

5. Reptiles

Reptiles are at number 5 on this list for their fun, playful qualities. This includes lizards, snakes, salamanders and other small reptilian animals. They are common in older age groups, are increasing in popularity and can be fun to take care of. Reptiles are also ranked number 1 for “specialty” pets.

6. Rabbits

Although rabbits are sweet and fluffy animals, they are also very difficult to care for. Once you get past the initial training stages of bunnies, they make great companions and can provide a lot of comfort. They are affectionate and love to cuddle and spend time with their owners.

All of these amazing animals have unique characteristics and appearances that are clearly loved in the United States. Each of these 6 different pets have great qualities, and you can refer to this list when deciding what kind of pet would be best for you and your lifestyle!