A little while back I noticed that Geocaching.com's blog Latitude 47 posted a request for geocachers to send in a 20 second video showing why we liked geocaching. In return they would put together a short video using some of the clips from those videos for their final showing "The Geocaching Year In Review". Just for kicks I put together some of my favorites of the year which included a segment from our NCGO 10th Anniversary event. This is the segment they chose to include in the video. We are at the 1:55 or so point. Don't blink but I am rather pleased we made it in.
You can see the post and video here:
http://blog.geocaching.com/2010/12/the-geocaching-year-in-review-a-geocaching-com-lost-found-video/
Here is the 20 Second video I originally submitted:
Here is the link if the video does not show above:
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1495883358866&oid=45625464679
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
This Week On Michigan Magazine TV - Show 1552 Shoot out at the Knot Hole & Black Star Gps App Review
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| Michigan Magazine TV |
You can see Michigan Magazine TV twice each week on the RFDTV Network. The GeoSnippits Geocaching Videos hosted by Andy "HeadHardHat" Smith is a weekly segment of the show.
If the player is not available above you can see the entire show by clicking the link here:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/11700736
Also there is a Ustream app for the Android smart phones so you can watch MMTV right from your fingertips.
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Sunday, December 26, 2010
So I Received A GPSr For The Holidays - Now What? Think Geocaching!
Yeppers, the holidays are winding down and you received a GPS as a present. Way cool but now what?
Automobile GPSr
For many a GPSr (Global Positioning System Receiver) comes in the form of a device you may very well use for your automobile. Today's units are very intuitive. Put in an address or a Point Of Interest like the nearest fast food restaurant and suddenly you are on your way. They are so good now a days that they can direct you through traffic by missing the busy roads depending on the current automobile flow. Need the current weather for your road trip? No problem. Want the best prices from the gas pump? They can do that. The point is if you need to get from point A to point B an automobile GPS can get you there.
Did you know you can use it also for geocaching? Read on.
Smart Phone GPSr
With a few exceptions most smart phones now come with GPS technology built in. In other words the same type of information an automobile GPSr can receive may also be available on your new phone. Depending on the model you may already have apps or programs that can show your location on a map. For example Google Maps a well known application even has turn by turn instructions. I was amazed recently when using it that not only did it get me to my destination but as I drove up it actually showed a photo of the house I was trying to find. So right off the bat a smart phone is an amazing piece of technology.
Did you know you can use it also for geocaching? Read on. Just a little bit more.
Handheld GPSr
Ah the staple of the everyday geocacher, an actual handheld GPSr unit. A beauty to behold. Handheld GPSr units are made for being outside. They are rugged, water resistant (not proof), have a long battery life and can
get you there and back again just about anywhere on the planet. If you are outside with either an automobile GPSr or smart phone they are at the mercy of the elements. A handheld is made to take it.
Most handheld GPSr units come with a standard map for good point of reference. They do not always come with maps that you can use for turn by turn directions. This means that it will show you what road you are on (if you are on a road) but it can't give you step by step like an automobile unit can. What do people use Handheld GPSr units for? Tons of things actually, hiking, trail blazing, biking, etc. Just about anything you can do outside that puts you in a situation you don't want to get lost or need to find a specific place on a map.
Want to know what all of these GPSr units can be used for? Geocaching!
What's geocaching you say? Geocaching is a game, sport and for some obsession where you go out and find well hidden containers called "geocaches". The geocaches are hidden all around the world, literally over a million of them sprinkled across the planet. There are most likely some right near you right now and you didn't even know they are there. Geocachers use GPSr units like the ones I just described to find these geocaches. Which means if you did just get a GPSr for the holidays - You can go geocaching!
This post is to go over the high points about different GPSr units in general and if you like millions of other geocachers want to learn more about geocaching here are some links to tons of information you can read up about. You will find them very useful and before you know it will be out finding your first ones. Enjoy.
Geocaching.com
The main hub of the geocaching world. Sign up and get all the coordinates you want for finding geocaches.
HeadHardHat's Award Winning Geocaching Blog - Geocache: I'm Not Obsessed... Right?
Here is years of searchable information about geocaching right at your fingertips. Not only do you get all my tips, tricks and techniques but access to my famous GeoSnippits geocaching videos as well. A must see.
GeoSnippits Geocaching Videos
There are dozens of very informative geocaching videos made for geocachers about geocaching. Tons of information on what geocaching is, tips, reviews, and real life examples of how to enjoy geocaching as a whole. Highly recommended for all geocachers to check these videos before venturing out.
So there you have it. Some examples of the different types of GPSr units you may have received this year for the holiday. They are amazing technologies and can be fun to use for an amazing activity like geocaching as well.
See you out on the trails.
-HHH
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Automobile GPSrFor many a GPSr (Global Positioning System Receiver) comes in the form of a device you may very well use for your automobile. Today's units are very intuitive. Put in an address or a Point Of Interest like the nearest fast food restaurant and suddenly you are on your way. They are so good now a days that they can direct you through traffic by missing the busy roads depending on the current automobile flow. Need the current weather for your road trip? No problem. Want the best prices from the gas pump? They can do that. The point is if you need to get from point A to point B an automobile GPS can get you there.
Did you know you can use it also for geocaching? Read on.
Smart Phone GPSr
With a few exceptions most smart phones now come with GPS technology built in. In other words the same type of information an automobile GPSr can receive may also be available on your new phone. Depending on the model you may already have apps or programs that can show your location on a map. For example Google Maps a well known application even has turn by turn instructions. I was amazed recently when using it that not only did it get me to my destination but as I drove up it actually showed a photo of the house I was trying to find. So right off the bat a smart phone is an amazing piece of technology.
Did you know you can use it also for geocaching? Read on. Just a little bit more.
Handheld GPSr Ah the staple of the everyday geocacher, an actual handheld GPSr unit. A beauty to behold. Handheld GPSr units are made for being outside. They are rugged, water resistant (not proof), have a long battery life and can
get you there and back again just about anywhere on the planet. If you are outside with either an automobile GPSr or smart phone they are at the mercy of the elements. A handheld is made to take it.
Most handheld GPSr units come with a standard map for good point of reference. They do not always come with maps that you can use for turn by turn directions. This means that it will show you what road you are on (if you are on a road) but it can't give you step by step like an automobile unit can. What do people use Handheld GPSr units for? Tons of things actually, hiking, trail blazing, biking, etc. Just about anything you can do outside that puts you in a situation you don't want to get lost or need to find a specific place on a map.
Want to know what all of these GPSr units can be used for? Geocaching!
What's geocaching you say? Geocaching is a game, sport and for some obsession where you go out and find well hidden containers called "geocaches". The geocaches are hidden all around the world, literally over a million of them sprinkled across the planet. There are most likely some right near you right now and you didn't even know they are there. Geocachers use GPSr units like the ones I just described to find these geocaches. Which means if you did just get a GPSr for the holidays - You can go geocaching!
This post is to go over the high points about different GPSr units in general and if you like millions of other geocachers want to learn more about geocaching here are some links to tons of information you can read up about. You will find them very useful and before you know it will be out finding your first ones. Enjoy.
Geocaching.com
The main hub of the geocaching world. Sign up and get all the coordinates you want for finding geocaches.
HeadHardHat's Award Winning Geocaching Blog - Geocache: I'm Not Obsessed... Right?
Here is years of searchable information about geocaching right at your fingertips. Not only do you get all my tips, tricks and techniques but access to my famous GeoSnippits geocaching videos as well. A must see.
GeoSnippits Geocaching Videos
There are dozens of very informative geocaching videos made for geocachers about geocaching. Tons of information on what geocaching is, tips, reviews, and real life examples of how to enjoy geocaching as a whole. Highly recommended for all geocachers to check these videos before venturing out.
So there you have it. Some examples of the different types of GPSr units you may have received this year for the holiday. They are amazing technologies and can be fun to use for an amazing activity like geocaching as well.
See you out on the trails.
-HHH
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
A Holiday Wish To All Of You From Us
We appreciate all your support, encouragement and friendship through out the year. Without you none of this would be possible.
Again we thank you.
Be safe out there and be ready for an even more amazing year in 2011.
Blessings to you.
-HHH
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
This Week on Michigan Magazine TV - GeoSnippits Interviews the Cache-A-Maniacs
If the viewer is not available above please click the link here to see the entire video:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/11577684
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Help HeadHardHat's Geocaching Blog Win A Retrevo Award Two Years In A Row
Yeppers, it's true. Our GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right? blog has been nominated for the 2011 Retrevo Awards for GPS information. We won the 2010 award last year and now going for two years in a row. How can you help? Vote for us! Simply click either the graphic or link below and that's it. Your vote is cast and you are done. No muss, fuss or forms to fill out. Just click and you are done.
You can vote once a day until January 24, 2010 but ONLY once a day. So please vote often.
We are very grateful for our viewers and fans. We greatly appreciate your support!
So please click away!
If the graphic does not appear above, please click this link to vote:
http://www.retrevo.com/search/vote.jsp?q=GRA182
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
You can vote once a day until January 24, 2010 but ONLY once a day. So please vote often.
We are very grateful for our viewers and fans. We greatly appreciate your support!
So please click away!
If the graphic does not appear above, please click this link to vote:
http://www.retrevo.com/search/vote.jsp?q=GRA182
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Monday, December 20, 2010
The Winner of the Just In Time For The Holidays: GeoSurvivalGear.com Contest Is...
Greetings All,
Over the past week we were celebrating our new web sponsor GeoSurvivalGear.com by having a contest to see if you our wonderful viewers could find me (HeadHardHat) in a photo entitled "Where's HeadHardHat?".
We had tons of responses with the majority of guesses going either to a shot of my brother Scott, the creepy looking guy in the upper left of the photo, my brother David in the bottom left of the photo or a geocacher where you can't see his face but is wearing a white hat. Nice try but I was hiding inside of a car shown below.
Out of the qualifying entries that did find the real me. The winner chosen randomly from the depths of my GeoSnippits hat is........drum roll..................... Preston Laughinghouse (cymbal clash).
Preston will be receiving the very cool King Cobra survival wrist band from GeoSurvivalGear.com and we will be contacting him today. Congrats Preston.
Oh and don't fret if you didn't win this time. We literally have a whole box of GeoSurvivalGear.com products we will be giving away soon. In fact our next contest will start right after the first of the year so keep checking in to our blog here, follow me on twitter (@headhardhat) or friend me on Facebook to be the first at our next contest.
Be sure to check out GeoSurvivalGear.com's website and see all their amazing geocaching products.
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Over the past week we were celebrating our new web sponsor GeoSurvivalGear.com by having a contest to see if you our wonderful viewers could find me (HeadHardHat) in a photo entitled "Where's HeadHardHat?".
We had tons of responses with the majority of guesses going either to a shot of my brother Scott, the creepy looking guy in the upper left of the photo, my brother David in the bottom left of the photo or a geocacher where you can't see his face but is wearing a white hat. Nice try but I was hiding inside of a car shown below.
 |
| You Found HeadHardHat |
Out of the qualifying entries that did find the real me. The winner chosen randomly from the depths of my GeoSnippits hat is........drum roll..................... Preston Laughinghouse (cymbal clash).
Preston will be receiving the very cool King Cobra survival wrist band from GeoSurvivalGear.com and we will be contacting him today. Congrats Preston.
 |
| Much More GeoSurvival.com Gear Contests To Come |
Be sure to check out GeoSurvivalGear.com's website and see all their amazing geocaching products.
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Saturday, December 18, 2010
GeoSnippits-GeoBasics-Finding a Geocache in the Woods
Well this should be the last GeoSnippits of 2010. I am going to be taking some time off to enjoy the holidays.
Below is a GeoBasics video which is intended for the absolute beginner but I know you enjoy my videos so feel free to watch anyways :) Today's episode is to help show how to find a geocache when you reach ground zero. It is focused on wooded geocaches this time. We will do an urban one soon.
In the video you will see some tips and techniques of looking once you are close to ground zero, tips of different areas to look in the woods and helpful suggestions to keep you safe.
Enjoy.
If the viewer above is not available please click the link below to see the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl7q9fixIOo
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Placing A Geocache - Would It Be Too Much To Ask?
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| A Poor Geocache Placement Can Be Upsetting |
I obviously can't speak for everybody but for me a poorly placed geocache can really tick me off. I'm not talking how the geocache is placed. Everybody has the right to place a geocache the way they see fit. No, I am talking about where they place a geocache especially when it comes to areas that the hider either did not get permission to place or when they are placed on no trespassing property.
Would it be too much to ask for a guideline such as this?
What do you think?
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
This Week on Michigan Magazine TV: GeoSnippits - NCGO Fall Fling 2010
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| Michigan Magazine TV is seen twice each week on the RFD-TV Network |
Recorded on 12/15/2010 We visit with the Fly Fishin Folk Singer Alayn Cayn at the historic North Branch Outing club near Lovells Michigan. This State and National Historic site was a favorite "fly fishing" retreat for Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Blackstone & other historic fiqures. Owner Todd Fuller gives us a tour.
Then HHH Andy Smith takes us to the 2010 NCGO Fall Fling where we meet more Geocachers then you can shake a stick at.
Mich Author Janet Mary Senki's TEN LESSONS LEARNED is also reviewed on this edtion.
If the player above is not available you can see the entire video here:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/11446100
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
A Family That Geocaches Together...
I get tons of emails from fans, viewers and a few critics every day. I love feedback because good, bad or indifferent it tells me what our fans want to know. Every once in a while I receive an email like the one below. I try not to toot my own horn, that much, yet it makes me feel unbelievably great after reading things like this:
Subject: You brought my family back together!
"Hello,
Just wanted to say a very big thanks for your videos (posted to YouTube). I discovered Geo Caching after buying a Garmin 1390lmt (not Geo Cache friendly :) ) and it turns out the kids love it. We are getting a Garmin 60csx just for doing these trips and your videos have been a central part of getting everyone in the family psyched AND educated on the in and out of the sport. Thanks again for having such an outstanding positive impact on our family. Your awesome!"You are most welcome and thanks for brightening my day...
Every time I wonder if I am making an impact on the geocaching community I get wonderful things like this. Just wanted to share.
-HHH
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Monday, December 13, 2010
Just In Time For The Holidays: GeoSurvivalGear.com Contest
 |
| Our Web Sponsor: GeoSurvivalGear.com |
We have a whole box full of goodies from GeoSurvivalGear.com that we will be giving away as prizes. To do that we are having the first of many contests. Are you ready to play? Great cuz here we go.
Our first contest is going to be "Where is HeadHardHat?".
Look at the picture below, click it or download it to get even closer. HeadHardHat is somewhere in this picture of different geocaching events. Your job is to circle only HeadHardHat by using your favorite paint program and then email your answer to headhardhat@gmail.com put the subject as Where is HeadHardHat Contest. Don't forget to include the following:
Your Name
Your Email Address
Your Phone Number
and the photo with Only HeadHardHat circled.
 |
| Where is HeadHardHat? |
A random winner will be selected from all the correctly identified photos on December 19th, 2010.
The prize from the Where is HeadHardHat contest will be a really fine King Cobra design survival wrist band.
 |
| King Cobra Survival Wrist Band |
Good luck to everyone. Please note one entry per person please.
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
This Week on Michigan Magazine TV - GeoSnippits - HHH's Great GPSr Experiment Flash Mob
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| Michigan Magazine TV - Home of GeoSnippits |
This week on Michigan Magazine TV - Recorded on 12/8/2010 Michigan Magazine visits the 17th annual Pioneer Power Antique Tractor & Gas Engine Club Show in West Branch Michigan. Then our Geosnippits w/ Andy, Head Hard Hat, Smith takes us to a Geocaching Flash Mob Event!
If the player does not appear above you can go directly to the video here:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/11318331
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
OpenCaching.com Beta - First Impressions
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| OpenCaching.com Beta Now Open |
Now OpenCaching.com has added it's geocaching opportunities to the mix. Granted it is currently in Beta which by definition means it is available for use but still not all of the kinks are worked out. It does give the geocacher a chance to expand geocaching in a new direction. This is also a good thing.
Currently you can become a user which is a free membership. You can import all of your hides and finds via .gpx file directly into the site. Note it does not work if you try to load the .zip format. You have to actually extract it first. Finally after you load your hides there is an approval process to confirm your hide information before it actually becomes active. If you are like me and have a bunch it is going to take a while before they are all available to the public.
I worked with the OpenCaching site today and found quite a few issues. Again it is in beta. Some of the main ones is a real lack of error checking and messages for each of the fields you interact with. For example you could be on a page with multiple fields and if one of the fields has invalid data all you get is a message that says Error - Try again. It doesn't tell you what the error is or which field has the issue. One of the errors was when you have too many characters describing you as a geocacher but it won't let you update the information and you just get the same error message. Gets a bit frustrating until they work it out.
The other thing I found interesting is that there are only three types of geocache types. Traditional, Puzzle or Multi. I am really hoping other known or unknown caches added to the list in the future.
Finally let's talk about Garmin. Garmin apparently owns OpenCaching.com, you can see it at the base of the website. That being said you do not see Garmin pushing it's products anywhere including when it talks about geocaching and GPS units. It does allow you to acknowledge that you are using a Chirp unit with a particular geocache but that is about it. Will that change down the road who knows but not for right now.
I am very excited for how this may effect geocaching and where it can actually go in the future. This in my book is a very good thing. Time will tell.
-HHH
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Monday, December 6, 2010
HeadHardHat Has A New Toy - Geekness Warning
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| HHH Gets His GEEK button pushed. |
I have been watching the greener pastures of Iphones and Droids for quite a while now. Waiting for the opportunity to get just the right combination of camera, Internet, GPS and hyper-drive capabilities. Then with the sound of knocking rattling my brain I was able to get an HTC Incredible Android Smartphone. For Free to boot. My original contract had expired a while ago so I was able to get the phone on a special rate provided by a rather popular electronics store. Sweet!
This is where the geekiness goes into overdrive. I have been a geek since Pong. I have been there when Atari was king and an 8088 computer had a 10 Mhz turbo mode. I hooked up my stereo directly into my computer system before there was something known a sound card. Watched every advance in PC computer gaming since the original joystick. Spent up to $5000 on one once to have the ultimate gaming system. My daughter calls it our junk computer now. Anyhow I have not had my geek button pushed like with this new phone since the days back the gaming world was finding it's niche.
 |
| Seen above with a gel cover just like HHH's |
Comparatively speaking, this phone is a rocket against the BlackBerry's old grey mare. The phone's build in features are amazing. 8 Gig of initial memory, 1Ghz processor, 8 Mp camera, oh and don't forget the hyper-drive.
Then there are the apps, TONS of apps, mountains of apps with a boat load that come already with the phone. Go to the Android or Google store and you have a choice of over 100,000 apps at your disposal. I spent three days going through just what I wanted to start with and all except two were FREE. I paid $4.00US for the two I purchased and yes they were games. With all the built in memory it is going to take me some time to fill up this puppy. Even when I do a 16 or 32 gig SD card will set things right. So cool.
WiFi is a life saver for me. I personally live in an area that has poor phone reception. It is in a low area and no matter what carrier I get a bar at best. So when I turned on my wireless WiFi functionality I now can stream video or download files in a flash by bypassing the phone connection and load things right off my router. That opened everything for me with using my phone.
Geocaching apps were definitely on my list as well. The second everyone heard that I now have an Android I was flooded with requests to do reviews on the available geocaching apps. I have C:Geo loaded already and all I can say is WOW. I will be doing a review on it and all the rest A.S.A.P., keep watch on my blog and most likely GeoSnippits videos as well.
So what can I say, I am so hooked on the Incredible. Right down to the Star Trek Tricorder app I am currently playing with to the amazing video quality to the ability to lock the front for a much needed lack of butt dialing. The one draw back that I do need to mention is that currently my carrier does not allow free tethering to my netbook. Not without a rather substantial fee. This is no longer a big deal due to all the things I can already do with my phone but it is my hope that down the line that tethering once again becomes a free service. Oh well you can't have everything.
If you are wondering if getting a smartphone is right for you all I can say is do your research for what is right for you. Be it a BlackBerry, Iphone or Droid. Know what you want and after you make your choice hold on to your potatoes because it is one heck of a fun geeky ride.
-HHH
* Hyper-drive not really included - yet.
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Welcome To Our Newest WebPage Sponsor: GeoSurvivalGear.com
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| Welcome to our newest sponsor |
Wanted to do a quick shout out to let everybody know that we have a brand spanking new web sponsor for GeoSnippits and my blog - GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?. Their name is GeoSurvivalGear.com and they make some of the most amazing para-cord survival items you have ever seen. Everything from very cool wristbands, belts, lanyards and so much more. They are an official distributor of Groundspeak which also includes Geocaching.com and all their spin-offs as well. Which means you get great prices on all the official geocaching swag, collectibles, starter kits, etc. all in one great website.
So what exactly is the "Survival" part about anyway? Great question. Imagine being in that one situation where you are out geocaching, hiking or just plain out and about. Some emergency situation comes up that you need the use of heavy duty string. For example for repairs, tie down, first aid, you get the picture. Having these amazing wearables on you when you least expect it could literally be a life savor. Para-cord is a very heavy duty cord with a million uses and you can even take paracord apart for really fine fibers for those needs as well. Something you will be thankful to have on your or in your pack when you need it.So please check out GeoSurvivalGear.com's website where you can see all of their products and product information. http://www.geosurvivalgear.com and tell them HeadHardHat sent ya.
-HHH
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Thursday, December 2, 2010
A Random Geocaching Thought - Crossover GPS Units with Internet Hook Ins
I was sitting in a local establishment today enjoying a warming bowl of soup when another of my random geocaching thoughts came to mind. It regarded what the next big technology for handheld GPSr units and what it may be. Things like better accuracy would be nice but that is already down to 3ft or less now a days. I jokingly thought that it would be easier if we just received that magical GPS chip that all we had to do was plug it in the back of our heads and be done with it. A little futuristic for now but I bet we come up with a workable concept in the not too distant future. What else?
Then it dawned on me that maybe a GPS / Smart Phone crossover would be cool. How about having a handheld GPS unit which is rugged and durable for outdoor use having the ability for limited (or unlimited) internet connectivity? Think of it. One of the best reasons we use geocaching applications on our smart phones is the ability to be anywhere and can pull the nearest geocache to us on a whim. That is key functionality right there.
Why not have that ability on a GPS unit? Simply pull out your GPS handheld, press a button and it automatically shows the nearest X number of geocaches to you. It can plot them on the map and maybe a bare bones description of the geocache you point to. How difficult can this be? There are already auto GPS units out there that have limited internet accessibility why not this? I am sure there are plenty of interesting ways small programs could be incorporated to show "near to you" points of interest besides geocaches that would be useful to hikers, bikers and outdoors related folks. Wouldn't it be cool to be able to go to a state park for example and instantly download all the trails and point of interest right from your GPS? Sure you can do some of this from your computer but to have it built in would be that much better.What do you think and oh if someone does invent this I want some royalties off of this one, hokay?
-HHH
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
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Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
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Wednesday, December 1, 2010
This Week on Michigan Magazine TV - GeoSnippits Make Your Own Travel Bug
Recorded on 12/1/2010 14 yr old Vicksburg singer Megan Rae has an update on her career.
Then Head Hard Hat Geocaching Guru Andy Smith shows us how to make a Travel Bug on todays Geosnippits..
Plus we review the book TEN LESSONS LEARNED by Mi. author Janet Mary Senki of St. Johns Mi.
If the player above is not accessible see the entire show on Ustream: http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/11188516
GeoSnippits Geocaching Videos twice each week on Michigan Magazine TV (RFDTV Network).
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
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@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Then Head Hard Hat Geocaching Guru Andy Smith shows us how to make a Travel Bug on todays Geosnippits..
Plus we review the book TEN LESSONS LEARNED by Mi. author Janet Mary Senki of St. Johns Mi.
If the player above is not accessible see the entire show on Ustream: http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/11188516
GeoSnippits Geocaching Videos twice each week on Michigan Magazine TV (RFDTV Network).
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
HeadHardHat's Geocaching GPS Holiday List 2010
It is my personal opinion which I have based on several years of asking directly from active geocachers and watching the trends of handheld units plus the incorporation of smart phone applications that the GPS market has become saturated. Much like the personal computer, at one point only the gamer and a few smaller niche of people owned them and thusly controlled it's overall popularity in the world. Then suddenly computers reached that point where everyone wanted them and thus saturated the market to the point they are giving them away. I feel GPS units have reached that point as well. Everyone has at least one and in many cases multiples. It was not too long ago that the only people who had a GPS was geocachers, hikers and survey people. Then the automobile GPS units started to come out and now they come standard in many cars. Handheld units are in demand but now almost all phones coming out now have GPS capability. You don't even have to have a handheld it's right on your phone. So mostly everybody in one way or another has them. A few years ago everybody wanted the latest and greatest GPS gizmo. The past couple of years, not so much.
So when I asked this year what GPS you would want under your tree the responses where half the numbers I was used to. Most wanted some top notch toys while many others were happier with the mid-ranged models. Very interesting indeed.
Below were the models from most popularly requested to the least. I linked up the top three for easy access to you.
HeadHardHat's Geocaching GPS Holiday List 2010
30% - Garmin Map 62st
15% - DeLorme PN-60 w/spot
10% - Garmin Oregon 450
5% - Nokia N8 w/a geocaching app
5% - Magellan Explorist
5% - Garmin Dakota 20
5% - Garmin Oregon 750
5% - Android Phone w/a geocaching app
5% - HTC Windows 7 w/a geocaching app
5% - DeLorme PN-40
5% - Garmin 76 CSx
5% - Garmin 60 CSx
I hope this list helps you with your holiday ideas and that it brings some GPS goodness to a whole bunch of geocacher stockings. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you all.
-HHH
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
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Twitter me at
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Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
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Saturday, November 27, 2010
Why Do We Go Geocaching - Be On GeoSnippits!
Here's your chance fellow geocachers. I frequently get asked if we can have guest geocachers on GeoSnippits. If you have been watching and we know you have. You have noticed that we indeed have had a bunch of guest geocachers this season. We want more. In fact we want a lot more. We want you.
There is an episode that I want to make entitled "Why Do We Go Geocaching?".
I thought to myself, why waste this opportunity by just giving my viewpoint? Why not have our viewers and fans send in their thoughts? Geocaching is an extremely diverse game, sport and obsession. Let's see what other fellow geocachers think.
What We Need:
To qualify for a possibility to be in the GeoSnippits video which will be seen on YouTube (a ten minute vid) and possibly on Michigan Magazine TV (a five minute vid) you need to make a 15 second (max) video stating why do you go geocaching. I can not stress this enough that creativity is key. You can have as many people in the video you want but it must be clearly audible to be used.
- All entries must be emailed by 12:00am 12/27/2010 - no exceptions.
- Email your entry to headhardhat@gmail.com with the subject of Why Do We Go Geocaching.
- All content must be PG rated (we are a family show).
- 15 seconds long max.
Good luck to all and please note that all submissions sent in means you give HeadHardHat aka Andrew T. Smith permission to present your video in GeoSnippits Videos which may be shown on You Tube, Michigan Magazine TV show and other forms of medium.
So get your videophone lens cleaned, charge up your camcorders, find that scenic spot you always wanted to shoot in front and get those entries answering the question Why Do We Go Geocaching?
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
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Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
This Week On Michigan Magazine TV - GeoSnippits and Geocaching With NCBiscuit
This week's GeoSnippits segment on Michigan Magazine TV (RFDTV Network) features the amazing geocaching team of NCBiscuit. You can see my post that shows us as we filmed that actual episode here:
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/2010/10/geocaching-with-ncbiscuit.html.
Enjoy the entire Michigan Magazine episode including our GeoSnippits video here:
If the player does not work correctly above you can see the entire episode here:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/11057280
Thanks to NCBiscuit for being on our show. If you would like to be a guest geocacher on GeoSnippits please contact HeadHardHat at headhardhat@gmail.com.
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Monday, November 22, 2010
HeadHardHat's BlackStar Geocaching Review Featured On TrackFiles Videozine
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| ICENRYE's Geocaching Videozine |
TrackFiles is a videozine produced and hosted by fellow geocacher IceNRye. Think of it as a video podcast which features geocaching news, events, geocaching videos and rewind summaries of other internet podcasts all in one well done video show.
Based out of Canada, IceNRye does an exceptionally good job packing a ton of geocaching points of interest that the geocacher can then examine further about the geocaching world.
This weeks episode is featuring among other geocaching goodness my GeoSnippits geocaching video review about the BlackBerry application BlackStar. BlackStar is a FREE geocaching application which allows you to use your BlackBerry smart phone to go geocaching. My review takes you out into the woods of North Carolina to test the application and finding geocaches plus a controlled manual testing as well. The results are worth the watch and we give all the links for you to find out for yourself.
Be sure to check out TrackFiles not only to see my BlackStar review but because TrackFiles is a really good show for geocachers who want to stay in the know about geocaching. I highly recommend it!
Go here to see TrackFiles and HHH's BlackStar Application Review: http://www.trackfiles.tv/?p=237
Go here to see TrackFiles main web page: http://www.trackfiles.tv
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Friday, November 19, 2010
HeadHardHat Reviews BlackStar Geocaching Application For BlackBerry Phones
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| HeadHardHat takes a look at BlackStar |
I had recently watched an episode of IceNRye's TrackFiles which is a very well done geocaching videozine. There he mentioned about a BlackBerry geocaching application known as Blackstar and if anyone had a video showing it in use. Now normally I usually get asked first to do a review but this is a FREE application and thought it would be perfect to test and let other geocachers know if it is worth using or not. So off I went into the Autumn woods of North Carolina and gave it a spin. Below is not only my review of it but a full blown GeoSnippits Video.
As you know I do not pull punches about a product I am reviewing. I calls them as I sees them so that you my ever trusted viewers get the facts. So before I get inundated with your emails of likes and dislikes let me say this straight out. When I first said I was doing a review of BlackStar I recieved a ton of twitter tweets from users who use BlackStar all the time. For that I am grateful, it is also the reason why I went and did a second round of testing just to be extra sure of my findings.
So go enjoy the GeoSnippits. I had a lot of fun making it and you will not only find my actual findings but a scorecard of how I felt BlackStar did... Enjoy.
-HHH
If the player above does not function, please click this link to go directly to the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n4Wradn28E
My personal likes and dislikes of the BlackStar application. I like that it is free and gives a beginning geocacher the chance to go out with minimal cost and go geocaching.
What bugged me the absolute most about BlackStar is it's need for use of third party applications and the time it took to load the applications for everything you do while geocaching. Also if you are in an area that does not have fast internet access you are really going to feel the pain with all the uploads. I honestly can say that this would be a terrible application to use if you were on a numbers run due to the lag between programs yet on the other hand if you are just geocaching for the moment it can be handy. The best thing is to give it a shot for yourself.
You can download your free copy of BlackStar for your BlackBerry phone from this link here:
http://www.blackstarnavigation.com/
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
This Week On Michigan Magazine - GeoSnippits - Calibrating Your GPS Unit
This week on Michigan Magazine TV (RFDTV Network). Recorded on 11/17/2010 A trip to EDMORE and the family owned Lakeland Mills rustic furniture factory and showroom. Then to OWOSSO and the 2009 Train Festival. On today's Geosnippits Andy Smith demonstrate how to calibrate you GPS for more accurate Geocaching.
See the entire show by clicking the viewer below.
If the above video does not play you can see it here:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/10911369
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Thursday, November 11, 2010
This Weeks Michigan Magazine TV and Geocaching with the Maile Family
This week on Michigan Magazine TV Barry visits Impression 5 a science museum in Lansing, MI and GeoSnippits introduces the Maile Family as they Geocache their way through the Eno Lake State Park.
If the player above does not display please use this link to see the video:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/10783856
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
GeoSnippits and Michigan Magazine TV - Let's Go Geocaching
There was some technical difficulties so last week's Michigan Magazine TV Show did not make it to Ustream.tv until just now. Check out Barry as he visits an animal rehabilitation center known as A.R.K. and HeadHardHat goes out into a crystal blue day just to go Geocaching and meets up with some interesting geocaches and a special visitor.
If the above viewer does not display, click the link below to see it.
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/10783446
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
GeoSnippits - NCGO Fall Fling 2010 Geocaching Event
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| This years NCGO Fall Fling geocaching event log - including map. |
This years NCGO Fall Fling 2010 was held at Norman Lake State Park, NC. As usual it was actually a three day weekend of geocaching goodness including a Meet and Greet, The Fall Fling and a CITO Event. We had hundreds of geocachers not only attend the event but camped in the early November temps to be here.
GeoSnippits Geocaching Videos
This GeoSnippits video focused on the main Fall Fling event this year. It will be shown on Michigan Magazine TV sometime around Christmas. You get to see it here now.
Enjoy this amazing event.
If the viewer above does not play then please click the link below to view it on You Tube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1kq5sMy9pM
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Geocachers Are The Best!!!
You have heard me state time and time again about how geocachers are absolutely the most kind and amazing people on the planet. To prove my point meet @treb03.
A short time ago I had made a comment via Twitter stating how I really wanted a Vernors. For those who do not know this amazing Ginger Soda. I grew up with Vernors which is mostly local to Michigan and a few areas around it. It is not found easily or at all in the Raleigh, NC area. It is a much stronger ginger taste than what you would get from a standard ginger ale drink, is extremely bubbly and the original formula goes back to 1866.
But I digress, Treb03 gave a couple suggestions where I might find it and after thanking him that was all I thought of it. Yesterday while I was attending this years NCGO Fall Fling geocaching event Treb03 handed me two bottles of Vernors. If I remember correctly he bought them in Virgina and toted them to here..
That was a huge and very nice gesture and one I will be talking about for a long time to come.
Thanks Again Treb03
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Time For Some Southern Cook'n
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T
The Unsung Heroes of the NCGO Fall Fling
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T
IMG00783.jpg
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T
Thursday, November 4, 2010
GeoSnippits - HHH's Great Geocaching GPSr Experiment Flash Mob Event
Our Great Geocaching GPSr Experiment Flash Mob Event was a huge success and we had a blast doing it. As far as I am concerned it gave a ton of interesting information. Now we have a complete GeoSnippits Video showing the entire event and featuring ALL the geocachers that were there. This particular episode has a very real feel and the editing shows you a whole lot more behind the scenes shots.
So sit back, relax and enjoy this amazing geocaching flash mob event and all the information that it provided.
If the player does not show above you can see it on You Tube here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8h0lijYMvA
You can see more information provided by this event at these two links...
And The Winner of the HHH's Great GPSr Experiment Flash Mob Is....
and
GeoCache: I'm NOT Obsessed... Right?
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/
-------------------------------------------------------
Twitter me at
@headhardhat
Please don't forget to visit our GeoSnippits Geocaching Tutorial Videos Website at
http://www.geosnippits.com