Exclusive Sneak Peek of HeadHardHat's Geocaching World (RVNN.tv)

Here we go gang.. An exclusive sneek peek of the very first show from Geocaching World which will be in the RVNN.tv loop starting this Sunday May 1st. So you get to see this before anybody else!

Geocaching World will be available regularly on Itunes in a couple of weeks where you can watch any episode you will like.

This is segment one of show one..

Enjoy and let me know who you think.

-HHH



If you cannot see the player above we apologize and you can see the entire segment by going to the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5dnW1y3Yqw

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HHH's Geocache of the Day: Yep, That Would Be A Chicken Sitting On That There 35mm Geocache

HHH's GotD (Geocache of the Day)

There is always a hot debate when it comes to LPC (Lamp Post Caches) or what is commonly referred to as 'Skirt Hides'. It doesn't matter what you call them they are the micro geocaching hides that are found under the aprons of parking lot lamp posts. They are usually quick park and grabs which can be found just about anywhere. The great thing about LPC's is if you are on a numbers run they are easy to find and you can practically roll down your car window to retrieve. The bad thing about them is they are everywhere, tons of them and they are almost always the same old "oh there it is" kind of find. BORING!

On the other hand there are some creative geocachers out there that are trying to make things more exciting when you raise the skirt, err, so to speak. To do this sometimes the geocache places has been creatively modified. Many times in rather humorous ways. As you note with today's Geocache of the Day photo someone attached a rubber chicken to the top of a standard 35mm container. I don't know about you but it made me smile when I found it. In the past I have seen some really creative and bizarre things placed in LPCs and I hope the trend continues. It makes the difference from a boring find to one that adds value to the geocaching world.

Until the next geocaching adventure...

-HHH

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HHH's GOTD: Magnetic Key Holder

Fortunately for me the weather is still cooperating for my lunchtime Geocache of the Day. A bit on the windy side but the temps are comfortable and as usual I am having a blast. I dashed out today because of a computer class I will be taking right after lunch. So this Geocache of the Day had to be a park and grab.

What was found at ground zero was this very nice cami'd magnetic key holder. Now normally these geocaches can be a poor choice. Mainly because key holders are not waterproof, not even close. So the end result is that your log book being a slimy pile of goo. This one in particular was hidden under a large ledge so water was not nearly as much of a factor. Which makes a very good key point that key holders are best hidden inside or under a well covered area. This will help keep your log book drier. You might also want to consider to periodically replace the little plastic baggie that many key holders have for the log book. The seals do not last as long as you might think and you may need to change them.

Until tomorrow's next geocaching adventure.

-HHH

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Behind the Scenes of Geocaching World - Episodes #3 and #4 - Geocaching Basics

Here's a Sneak Peek at the new intro of Geocaching World

Wow if I was exhausted last week after taping the first two episodes of Geocaching World (RVNN.tv) then this week I'm, well, even more exhausted. You see not only did we do episodes #3 and #4 but I followed that with a LIVE recording of the Geocaching Podcast as well. So basically I was on the go for about four hours straight.. Whew I do love this.

One of the many things that I love about doing the show are the people who are directly connected with it. First there is Dave Dufour who is show narrator and if I can be completely honest is like that long lost brother you never knew about. We just fit when it comes to talking about stuff. In fact there is almost as much content that never actually gets recorded between takes than gets into the actual show. We just hit it off that well. I think it shows in Geocaching World banter between us. Next is Andy McCaskey and Courtney Wallin. Andy is the Managing Director and Courtney is Producer with both wearing a lot of hats to keep everything running smooth. As a team it is like we have been doing this for years. We joke around, make fun and basically make each other laugh while getting through all the background stuff that goes into a television production. I am just delighted how well this all comes together.

Before today's tapings started both I and everybody that was watching via Ustream and Facebook chat rooms got to see what the production studio looked like behind the cameras. It was really cool because it was the first time I got a chance to see their environment and where they all work day in and out. I received several thank yous from geocachers who attended and saw this truly behind the scenes glimpse right there with me. Very cool.

We talked a whole bunch about different geocaching subjects in 3 and 4 but the main focus was geocaching basics. How to find a geocache in the woods when you reach ground zero. What are some of the key things to look out for while geocaching. What are the different types of geocaches and how do you look them up on geocaching.com. Important stuff for geocachers to know when starting out and a great refresher to everyone else.

This is one of those situations where even though you are putting so much energy into a project it does not seem like work and I would not have it any other way. Can't wait to start taping the next shows in the week ahead. Also thanks to all the geocachers and viewers who showed up today. We love hearing from you and several are getting mentioned in the show. Come back for more fun next week. See you there!

-HHH


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Behind The Scenes: Geocaching Podcast - Show #201 - Losing Weight with Geocaching

Wow, last night's Geocaching Podcast was a lot of fun. In this weeks episode GP host Darrylw4 focused on how geocaching can be utilized for health benefits and in his case helpful with him losing 70 pounds!

Everybody was in good voice last night (we record live on Wednesdays at 9:30 PM EST) and for some strange and bizarre reason no technical difficulties. Without getting too deep into what was actually talked about I would like to say this. This episode is chock full of really useful information. Darrylw4, XpunkX and myself really nailed many of the concerns for good health and some really useful tools and applications you can use each and every day.

So give show #201 a listen by going to your favorite podcatcher software tool. It should be available sometime today or tomorrow. You will be glad you did.

Special thanks to everyone who was in attendance in the chat room while we recorded. You fine folks keep us going and always present insightful knowledge we couldn't get anywhere else.. Thank You!

See you next week!

-HHH

For more information about attending the Geocaching Podcast Live each week or any other valuable information please visit us at http://geocachingpodcast.com/

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This Week On Michigan Magazine - Show 1617 THE GRILL N PAL - Tri Point Connections - Geosnippits NCBiscuit

Recorded on 4/27/2011 Michigan Inventor Tom Simon and his GRILL N PAL designed to stop the "flame ups" on the back yard grills. Then a new faith based non profit org paves the way for a new outreach program Tri Point Connections. Our Geosnippits w/Andy Smith highlights geocaching with man & woman's best friend. K9 fun with NCBiscuit.



If the viewer above is unavailable you can see the entire episode by clicking the link below:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/14306277

You can see GeoSnippits Geocaching Videos each and every week on Michigan Magazine TV and the RFDTV Network.

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HHH's GotD: Bison, Bison, Who's Got The Bison

Red Bison Tube Attached To
Magnet

Today's Geocache of the Day deals with an oldie but a goodie - bison tubes.

Bison tubes and their pill holding cozens have come a long way over the past few years. When first introduced it looked like these log only micros would only be one size and black, silver or green in color. Now they have multiple sizes and every color you can think of. With all their size, shape and color combinations the principle behind them is still the same. Being so small they are easy to hide and not so easy to find. Especially if the color selection and placement are matched up correctly. Then they can be a real pain for a geocacher.

Bison tubes usually have three main parts. The base, which is the larger part of the bison tube, the cap and the ring. Inside is a very small log book which usually gives the geocacher enough room to put the date and their name and that's about it. Always remember to wind up the log book as tight as possible and put in the CAP first before putting the rest of the log into the tube. This ensures the log will fit correctly.

When it comes to finding bison tubes for me personally they are very tough. The example shown today was a simple placement of a bison tube in a street sign. Not too hard but put one of these micros on a fence in a field, in a pine tree or for the absolute worst in a grape vine. They literally seem to disappear and are only visible when they want to be. This of course is never when I am trying to find one.

A bison tube can fit in a huge assortment of nooks and crannies. So if ground zero has a lot of places to look for a geocache a real challenge can be made. They are really one of those geocaches we love to hate.

Until tomorrows next geocaching adventure...

-HHH



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Geocaching World with Andy 'HeadHardHat' Smith: Special LIVE Taping Date/Time This Week

Hey Gang tell everybody you know,

I just wanted to let everyone know how much we appreciated all the geocachers that showed up in our UStream Chat room last week for the premier recording of Geocaching World on the RVNN.tv Network.

Normally we tape on Thursday evenings at 6:30PM EST. Unfortunately this week only we are taping Wednesday instead of Thursday. So if you want to watch and participate in the show. Show up tomorrow Wednesday 4/27/11 at 6:30PM EST and let all your fellow geocachers know.

Here is the link to go to the live taping:
http://www.rvnewsnet.com/live

Also we saw a bunch of viewers logged in to the chat room as guests, please be sure to sign up at Ustream so we can see your actual names.. We mention them during the show! Also bring lots of questions to ask because we also bring them up during the taping as well and you might get mentioned.

We had a great discussion last week and hope to see you back again tomorrow 4/27/11

Again this is for this week only. Then it's back to Thursday nights as usual...

See you there!

-HHH

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HHH's GotD: Themed Geocaches

Today's Geocache of the Day brought a smile to my face. Well to be honest most geocaches bring a smile to my face, especially when I find them. Yet some bring more of a smile than others. What am I rambling on about? Themed geocaches. In other words geocaches that have a subject dedicated to that particular geocache. Some can be about a particular place in the world, favorite hobby or a particular animal.

The point is the geocache and it's contents have something to do with a particular theme. For example, I have found several that deal with a family pet or animal. One recently had to do with the OP's family dog. So the geocache was filled with all sorts of dog toys and 'poop' bags just in case you brought your favorite geocaching pup. Other geocaches that I have found were actually custom made to represent a theme. Like the one that was a ceramic mushroom or a big plastic owl hidden in the middle of a large hollow oak tree.

One of my favorites was in reference of a blind duck in a duck blind. When you get to ground zero you are very well surprised with the creativity of the hider and the container itself. To this day it is one of my favorites on how it was created and the types of swag it had inside.

So keep an eye out for themed geocaches they are a lot of fun.

Until tomorrow's geocaching adventure.

-HHH

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HHH's Geocache of the Day: Unusual Geocache Placements

One of the many very cool aspects of geocaching is ones ability to place a geocache in an area that can be deemed 'unusual'. That being said the term unusual can mean anything from something visually surprising, informative and down right, umm, unusual. In these special cases it usually means that ground zero is extremely muggle prone. That and I cannot stress enough the importance with getting the correct permission from the land owner for placement. Do everything right and you have the potential of one heck of a geocache hide on your hands and an upcoming logbook of happy geocachers just waiting to find it.

So what would be some good examples of unusual. In my past I have found entire series of geocaches based on iconic statues or pieces of art. In the photograph above shows a rather well painted rooster that is part of a geocaching series based off a single artist. Another placement actually had me stating 'No Freak'n Way' when I drove up to ground zero. This is a family blog so I won't go into the exact details but lets just say when you stand a certain way the artist's concept created a visual representation that required the correct placement of large shrubbery to understand the full effect. Email me if you want to learn more.

In any case the attraction nearby does not have to be the unusual part. The geocache itself can be notably different as well. I have found geocaches in the form of mushrooms, gnomes, owls and a whole assortment of other normally unused shapes and sizes. I really believe that these types of geocaching finds are just as surprising and fun as the tricky, where is it kind. Both also give you the exact same digital smiley.

It is situations like this that just prove to many how geocaching is a very diverse and amazingly creative game, sport and obsession.

Until tomorrows next geocaching adventure...

-HHH

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Behind the Scenes of Geocaching World - In the Beginning

HeadHardHat is the Host of RVNN.tv's
new show Geocaching World

HHH Note: These were my thoughts the evening of 4/21/2011 as I sat in one of my favorite eating establishments and collecting my thoughts. Enjoy.

So what is it like to be a host of a brand new Internet TV show? 
After just finishing up the recording of the premier two episodes the first thing that comes to mind is exhilarating, magical and exhausting. The name of the show is Geocaching World and will be seen each and every week via Ustream and the RVNN.tv network. What is the RVNN all about? Well RVs of course and what do RVrs do? Well go geocaching of course. Of all the programming RVNN does 90% deals with what RVrs do and not necessarily just about the RVs themselves. It's a perfect fit.
So tonight we did the initial taping. I was not entirely sure how this was going to work but the gist is there was Courtney and Andy who did all the production behind the scenes work and Dave Dufour who is kind of a co-host who directs the show by asking me questions about geocaching that I answer and converse back with him. As we record the show they use a lot of content from my GeoSnippits videos and geocaching photos. They are used as visuals for the discussion at the time. We do three seven minute segments per show.
The real cool part was the LIVE chat room which had several fellow geocaches as we recorded. It always is great because geocaches love to talk about geocaching and it actually helps with the show.
After two hours of discussion it was over. Now that some time has passed I can tell how pumped up I must have been because I am really exhausted. I know one of the most popular questions that will be asked is when with Geocaching World air. The answer is very soon and the second I find out I will let everybody know so they can watch. If you want to come and actually see us do the recording please be sure to come visit each Thursday at 6:30 PM EST by going to this link: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/rvnn-live where you can join the chat room. We actually mention any questions or geocachers that make comments during the taping so feel free to bring up discussions or ask questions. The show is all about geocaching so come along and join the fun.
See you there!
-HHH
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HHH's Geocache of the Day: Emergency Geocache Repair Kit

Today's Geocache of the Day deals with the situation of geocache repair and what you can do to help. Read on fellow cacher.

If you are a geocacher that takes geocaching seriously then you most likely have learned to take certain necessities with you just about every time you venture out. Things like food, water, extra clothes and first aid kits are a good start. What I am suggesting is another necessity that you should consider and that is the EGRK or Emergency Geocache Repair Kit. As your number of finds grow you increase the odds of coming upon a geocache that has been damaged and needs repair. Sure you can just sent a note to the geocache owner and have them deal with it but wouldn't it be better for everybody if you just fix the issue right then and there? I'm not talking complete replacement but there are some common repairs that any community friendly geocacher would take upon themselves to fix. For example:

Wet logs, happens all the time. A seal breaks or a top was not put on correctly and the next thing you know the log book is goo. Having some pre-printed log books in your EGRK could make this situation a quick fix.

Baggies, those nice little baggies only have a finite number of open and closes per bag before the seal is shot. Keeping a few of these extra in your EGRK would help keep logs out in the wild a bit drier for a bit longer. They only cost pennies and the help to the geocaching community is greatly appreciated.

Duck Tape (Duct Tape), Every once in a while a geocacher accidentally pokes a hole in the top or side of a plastic geocache. Using some good ole duck tape would help temporarily keep a geocaches precious trinkets away from the elements before the geocache owner can replace the container. An EGRK staple in my book.

I have made a GeoSnippits tutorial video about making your own EGRK. If you are interested you can see the video by clicking this link:
http://headhardhat-geocache.blogspot.com/2010/08/geosnippits-making-your-own-emergency.html

Oh and why did I call it the Emergency Geocache Repair Kit instead of the Geocache Emergency Repair Kit.. Well who wants to make a GERK? Looked to much like jerk to me ;)

Until tomorrow's next geocaching adventure...

-HHH

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HHH's GotD: Geocaching Rule #1 - Poke It With A Stick

There are several hard fast geocaching rules that you will hear from the ole HeadHardHat all the time:
1. Always mark where your vehicle is before venturing out.
2. Always check your batteries in your GPSr.
3. Don't eat spinach with a stranger.

Okay maybe not the third one so much but I do have one major rule when it comes to geocaching and that is "Poke It With A Stick!". Depending on where you go geocaching can put you in potential contact with an awful large amount of snakes, spiders and critters that will bite you if you stick your hands where they should not be. Unfortunately many times that is right around hidden geocaches. If you have seen some of my GeoSnippits videos you will see such critters like black widow spiders, venomous snakes and other things that will spoil your day if you are not careful.

Snakes in particular are always a major concern. In North Carolina for example there are seven venomous snakes. Even for the ones that are not dangerous will cause some pretty severe bites. Think it will never happen to you? Talk with other geocachers in your area. A good friend and experienced local geocacher by me was bit a year or two back by a copperhead. I also was told of two other geocachers in the state that were bit last year as well. It can happen to any of us if we are not careful. Also note that snakes love to stay around and under geocaches. Especially when they are made of metal like ammo boxes. The heat radiates longer from the metal so they keep close.

Spiders love LPC (Lamp Post Caches) hides. Not to mention guard rails, drainage grates and any other nook or cranny they can get into. Go ahead and feel around without looking, see what happens. Not a good thing to do.

My one big rule will always be Poke It With A Stick before reaching in any area you can not see clearly. It is important to stay safe out in our geocaching playground. You never know what might be sleeping nearby. Be careful out there.

Until tomorrows next geocaching adventure...

-HHH

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Behind The Scenes: Geocaching Podcast - Episode 200: Geocoinfest US 2011

Wow, Episode 200 of the Geocaching Podcast.... Man it seems like only weeks ago when I started on the GCPodcast and I can still remember... oh wait.. it was only a few weeks for me but XpunkX and Darrylw4 have been doing this for many years now and you can tell the experience between them as they talk. Also on the show was some really nice congratulations for the 200 show mark including from Sonny and Sandy of Podcacher Podcast.  Thanks guys. So I am going to take this time to also congratulate the rest of the gang for their milestone and look forward to being a part of this amazing podcast for a very long time.

So what happened at the live recording? We record the Geocaching Podcast LIVE each and every week at 9:30PM EST and if you are not already part of the peanut gallery of fans that show up you should be. That way you can experience all the fun we do right as it happens. Like the weekly Talkshoe issues where somebody can't get in and the rest of us make fun until they do OR no matter how many shows XpunkX has done the main commentary something gets slurred or misspoken. Then there is all the umms and ahhhs I do when I try to get a point across. It's all part of being in a live production and quite frankly we wouldn't have it any other way. All the more fun for you to listen too.

Our banter section was great and I was very proud to be able to announce my NEW weekly 30 minute Internet program Geocaching World which we will be doing our first taping today 4/21/2011 and invited everyone to meet up with the production crew via chat room and can actually ask me geocaching questions as we are taping. If you would like to participate you can meet up with us at 6:30PM EST by clicking this link: http://www.rvnewsnet.com/live. Hope to see you there.

This episode we had Scott, who was one of the coordinators for the Geocoinfest. Scott was kind enough to give us all the information he had on the subject and I hope it entices everyone to try and make it down to South Carolina to attend this amazing geocoin event. You can get all of their information about the event at their website - here: http://www.geocoinfestus2011.com/

I know I am really looking forward to it because it is only a few miles south of Charlotte, NC which means it is only a couple of hours drive for me - W00t!

Lots more for you to listen to when the actual Geocaching Podcast comes out today or tomorrow. Be sure to check it out!

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Come Chat With Us LIVE Tonight For Taping of Geocaching World (RVNN.tv)

Consider yourself officially invited to attend our very first recording session of Geocaching World for the RVNN.tv Network. That's right yours truly Andy "HeadHardHat" Smith will be hosting a 30 minute weekly Internet show and the first recordings are starting at 6:30PM EST TONIGHT!

One of the very cool aspects of recording the show live is YOU can participate right along with us. We have a live chat room set up where you can comment and ask geocaching based questions which will be used in the show itself. How cool is that? Plus watch us as we record live as we iron things out and you know how that can go.

Sound interesting? Great because the show is going to be tailored by you our audience. So if you want to be involved with the show. Join us in the Ustream chat room at 6:30PM EST.
Here is the link: http://www.rvnewsnet.com/live

We will be taping the first two shows in the series so you can always say 'you where there'.

See you tonight!

-HHH

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HHH's GotD: Travelling Treasures - Geocoins

One of HHH's favorite personal geocoins

Hey gang, today's Geocache of the Day does not necessarily deal with the way a particular geocache was hidden or the container itself. Today is all the about the insides. Not the swag but those specially ID'd trinkets known as Geocoins. Yes those shiny, pirate luv'in coins that can be found in many geocaches around the world. Why are geocoins so special? For me personally it is the weight and feel of them. In many cases they are gold, silver or some other metal in color. Once side usually has brightly colored enamel pressed within the coin itself. Each has it's own theme and personality. Each with it's own story to tell. The tails end of the geocoin usually has information about the group who sent it. Also on the back is the special ID number which is usually tracked on Geocaching.com's website. Note some geocoins have the id on the side of the coin as well so if you can't find it on the front or the back look on the side of it.

Big thing to remember is that geocoins (unlike pathtags -which will be another post) are someone else's property. THEY ARE NOT SWAG! Geocoins are individual game pieces which move from one geocache to the next. Sometimes going from state to state and even country to country. It all depends on the geocacher that finds them and where they drop them off next. They are meant to be appreciated and enjoyed then back into the next geocache for someone else to discover.

So if you are fortunate enough to find one of these pieces of geo-art. Treat them with kindness and move them on as you would any other travel bug. Also be sure to check out their web pages as well. You will be amazed how far some of them have traveled and to where.

Until tomorrow's geocaching adventure.

-HHH



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This Week On Michigan Magazine - Show 1616 Michigan inventor of WEEDGATOR then Geocaching Muggles

Recorded on 4/20/2011 Join us as we visit with Pinconning inventor Justo Zarazua inventor of the WEEDGATOR a device to effectively eliminate pond and lake weeds quick and easy! Then Andy, HHH, Smith gives our geocaching friends some tips in dealing with the ever present Geo-muggles on another edition of Geosnippits!







If the viewer above is not present you can see the entire Michigan Magazine episode by clicking the link below:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/14153360

GeoSnippits is seen each and every week on Michigan Magazine and the RFDTV Network.

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HHH's GotD: The Lock N Lock Geocache

Geocachers for the most part love discussing about the different types of geocaching containers available. Everything from magnetic nanos to ammo boxes, bison tubes to the truly creatives. One of my favorite sayings when telling someone what geocaching actually is I usually use the phrase "Using a billion dollar satellite system to find Tupperware in the woods". That is sort of ironic now because we really don't use Tupperware anymore. The plastic containers we use now a days have improved dramatically. For example, the past few years I have been using Lock N Lock boxes. Here's why.

There are a couple of factors you want to consider if you are going to hide a geocache made of plastic. The first and foremost is of course the seal. Not only should you get a solid seal but is the plastic container heavy duty enough to withstand the outside elements of your environment. Note to all. Those inexpensive transfer containers, my advice, please don't use them. They are not durable enough to deal with the heat and moisture of being outside. Spend the dollar or two more and get something durable. Your fellow geocachers will appreciate it greatly.

A final thought, so this does not seem like a Lock N Lock commercial. There are now many different brands of heavy duty plastic containers out there besides Lock N Lock. It's just in the geocaching community those style of geocaches have been associated to the name. My whole point is do your research before putting out a plastic based geocache. Make sure it is as waterproof as possible and that it will withstand the environment you are placing it in. Heat, cold and moisture is always a factor.

Until tomorrow's next geocaching adventure...

-HHH

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HHH's GotD: Not All Geocache Containers Are The Same

Cami Peanut Butter Container Geocache

Today's Geocache Of The Day deals with geocache containers themselves. You see not all geocaches are the same. I am not talking about size in this discussion but the quality of the container itself. There are some really good ones out there and also some really bad ones. When placing a geocache you really need to be asking yourself: "Is this geocache container water proof and how long will it actually last until there is a possible problem with it?".

Sure a peanut butter container may seem like a really good idea because it holds peanut butter just fine. The problem is that peanut butter is not the same liquid density as water or water vapor. It may keep your extra crunchy from oozing out but a good rain storm or continuous humid days that can create condensation - not so much. I personally won a complete geocache at an event a year or two back which consisted of a nicely camouflaged peanut butter container with log book and full of swag. I quickly placed it in a very nice gnome hole near a fishing stream and was amazed how quickly it went up for need of maintenance. Sure enough when I check on it there was a lot more water inside then I expected. Keep in mind this is in a gnome hole within a tree and a cover over the hole itself. Yet condensation became a key factor and a large amount of water accumulated quickly. Whoda Thunk?

This issue also happens with many other geocache containers as well. What I highly recommend doing before placing a hide is completing a "dunk test". If the environment you are going to place the geocache is prone to moisture then try this. Take a piece of tissue paper and put it in your geocache. Close the geocache normally. Then submerge it in a bucket of water for five to ten seconds (other people like to just hold it under the faucet for a longer period) then see what shape you paper is in. If it is wet then so your contents and logbook will be. Try it out, you will be amazed.

The key to all of this is to make sure your geocache is as waterproof as possible depending on the environment you are hiding it in. Do your homework first which will save you and your fellow geocachers some grief down the road.

Until tomorrow's next geocaching adventure.

-HHH

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HHH's Geocache of the Day: Match Containers

There is a really nice alternative to bison tubes and pill bottles if you are looking for a more water resistant micro. Match containers are a bit longer and a lot wider than your standard bison tube. I like them because most come with an o ring seal and many times a key ring attachment. They are already as in this case a very nice forest green so it is ready for woodland environments. You can pick these up at any Army surplus store and at most sporting goods shops. Give them a try and let me know what you think.

Until Monday's next geocaching adventure...

-HHH

HeadHardHat Had Fun Being On The GeoCraze Podcast

Yesterday I had the pleasure of being on the GeoCraze Podcast hosted by Giantster98. The topic of the day was evil geocaches which I found ironic after the can of worms I opened up with my last post.

Anywho, I have been keeping an eye on Giantster98 ever since he came on the podcasting scene. He is and extremely talented and exuberant young man with a whole lot to tell the world. I applaud his efforts and of the rest of his podcast team.
I don't want to give too much away about the show itself here but we did go over some really useful information about how to make a truly evil geocache and the effort that may go into it. We also discussed some great do's and do not's when placing an evil geocache as well.

I wish the GeoCraze Podcast all the best and hope they continue to bring geocaching goodness to our community for many years to come. Nice job guys.

You can listen to the GeoCraze Podcast live on Talkshoe (just like some other really cool Geocaching Podcast I know). Just choose talkshoe show id 91519 or you can visit their Facebook page here:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/GeoCraze-Geocaching-Podcast/182316475113097


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HHH's GotD: I'm Not So Sure This Is A Good Idea

Agree or Disagree Let Me Know

The following discussion is a spoiler. Please do not read if you wish to pursue finding this actual geocache. I will not state specifically which one it is or where with the knowledge that there are ways.  I felt it was necessary for discussion purposes and apologize now to anyone who may not approve to my approach in this matter. It is my hope though to bring thought and discussion which keeps geocaching  the game, sport and obsession it is.

Went on today's Geocache of the day and found a particular park and grab that has me questioning if the concept in the hide itself is such a good idea.

Let me set up the scenario. It is a realitively easy park and grab. You park into a nearby spot then wonder up a rather scenic little pine needle covered hill until you reach ground zero. Now for my GPS at the time the arrow was jumping a bit due to the heavy tree cover so I had to do some heavy checking of areas.

After a while ground zero settled near what appeared to be a Bell South utility cap. Now I don't know about you but when it comes to anything that deals with utilities I automatically discount them because I don't want to be touching things that are made to protect you from touching. This particular spot though wooded was across the street from a high muggle prone area and in these kinds of situations can bring on that uncomfortable should I or shouldn't I kind of feeling.

After a few moments of thought I took the plunge and low and behold the geocache was indeed inside. Now the base looks like it goes down rather deep so I don't know if this was an actual utility area and it was abandond or what but here it is. The cap that goes over everything looks like a legit South Bell utility cap. So my question to you fellow geocachers is this an acceptable placement for a geocache?

Comment below and let me know your thoughts because this easily could be a discussion for a future GeoSnippits or Geocaching Podcast discussion.

Until tomorrow's geocaching adventure...

-HHH




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Behind The Scenes: Geocaching Podcast - Show #199 Placing Your First Geocache

I tell you what, last night's recording for the Geocaching Podcast was a whole lot of fun. The subject was also one of my favorites to talk about which was Placing Your First Geocache. When it comes to GeoSnippits questions that is one of the top on the list to be answered. Everything from how soon should a geocacher be allowed to place their first hide to what actually makes a good geocache hide. Plenty to talk about there.

Xpunkx, Darrylw4 and myself were in attendance and in good voice. Talkshoe which is the recording web site we use was it's usual cranky self. There is always an issue of not being able to sign in and even when we do get into Talkshoe there are usually some sort of technical issue or six to make us want to pull our hair out. Like last week where I couldn't participate because I sounded like a Cylon on crack. All part of the fun of doing a live recording.

Fortunately everything was smoothed out just in time to start the show at 9:30pm EST. We had another really good turn out in the chat room again. Great to see all the familiar names and a whole bunch of new ones, as always welcome. It doesn't matter what is going on during the show a good discussion is always in play within the chat room. Usually what happens is Xpunkx, Darrylw4 or I are talking about a particular subject and that seeds ongoing discussions in the chat room. Then many times we feed off those discussions and on and on it goes. A great way to keep things fresh and also keep everyone involved. That is also why it is so important to have the fans show up when we record each and every week!

The show content was great and we covered A LOT of material within our usual 30+ minute encounter. My favorites were talking about what makes a good geocache container and where are the best places NOT to hide them. A great discussion all around.

Well that about raps it up for this weeks show. For those who did not make the live recording the show itself will be available in the next day or so. If you have any questions about the show or my involvement with it please be sure to email me a note at headhardhat@gmail.com or go to the Geocaching Podcast website for all the information you will need.

Until next week. Hear You There!

-HHH

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HHH's GOTD - Not. Strike One!

Yes Headhardhat has strike one on today's Geocache of the Day. Sigh. I hate when the description states the obvious and yet I completely ignore it anyways. The scenario stated the geocache was low and in plain site. So what do I see exactly at ground zero (note photo). It even states that you do not have to take anything apart and it is right there. So what do I do? Had to look. This one is a difficulty 3 so I checked any rock, pine cone and bush stump around - nada. Marked my DNF.

Oh well will take another swing for this one again soon.

Until tomorrow's geocaching adventure.

-HHH

This Week On Michigan Magazine - Show 1615 Vinegar Pie & Geocaching with the Fray Girls

Recorded on 4/13/2011 Join Barry as he welcomes guest Vera Souci into the Michigan Magazine Museum Kitchen to prepare an old Michigan Lumber Camp tradition VINEGAR PIE. Then we join Geocaching guru Andy HHH Smith for an exciting GEOSNIPPITS with a NC family the Fray Girls. Highlight includes caching an abandoned WWII bunker.



If the viewer above is not available you can watch the entire episode by clicking the link below:
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/13968838

You can see HHH and GeoSnippits each and every week on Michigan Magazine TV (RFDTV Network).

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HHH's GOTD - Nano Nano

This quick lunch time Geocache of the Day was a fun little nano just waiting to be signed. Remember to always wind up the log to fit in the cap first before putting it back into the nano body.

Until tomorrow's geocaching adventure.

-HHH

HHH's Geocache of the Day - Quick Park and Grab

Well folks it's Monday and today I wanted my lunch time geocache of the day to be quick and easy. So for once I did what I should be doing and stayed with a 1.5/1.5. Commonly known as a geocaching park and grab. Even though this one was near a muggle prone area the find was quick.  The nice thing is I had plenty of time to write up this blog post, eat lunch and get back to work.
Until tomorrow's geocaching adventure.
-HHH

HHH's GotD - DNF's Are Not A Bad Thing

Heading for hide number one = DNF

Okay I admit that I broke some of my own rules when it comes to lunchtime geocaching. One if you are on a lunch hour you really need to concentrate on the park and grabs. Meaning the 1.5/1.5 difficulty and terrains. You know the infamous LPC (Lamp Post Caches) aka Skirt Hides, that sort of thing. Geocaches that should take ten minutes tops so you can find and sign then get on to lunch. Today I went after yet another 2.5 geocache that I knew would take me a bit longer to get but still wanted to get out there and enjoy the springtime weather. 

Heading for hide number two = FIND

So did I go after the geocache that was only 400 feet off one way of a nature trail? Oh no, I went for the 2.5 which was half a mile down the other way. So what happened? I ended up spending 25 minutes looking for a regular that was "next to a log" in an area of about 40 logs. Needless to say I had to give up on this one and try it again some other time.

A big old DNF (Did Not Find) for me. Some geocachers do not log DNFs for some reason. Maybe they feel it is a bad mark that some how haunts them. Others may feel it is a sign of poor geocaching abilities. I don't really understand the logic but the fact is a DNF actually is a great thing to log. One it gives you that incentive to give it another try or maybe sometimes several tries. Another reason DNFs are good is because the geocache owner gets notice that maybe the geocache may be missing. So take it from your friendly neighborhood HHH and be sure to mark your DNFs. Believe me when I say that no one else is watching and if they are they need a new hobby.

So after all that, what was the conclusion to today's adventure? After I DNF'd the first attempt I went for another geocache that was nearby and found that one. I don't always have that luxury but this time it was there and I took the chance for a find. Glad I did.

Now I have only a few minutes to hit a nearby drive thru.

Cami Pill Bottle In Tree

Till Monday's geocaching adventure...

-HHH

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Behind the Scenes: This Week on theGeocaching Podcast - #198 - April Cacher Coffee

Well folks it happens. Last night when Darrylw4, XpunkX and I were preparing for the evenings recording of the Geocaching Podcast there appeared to be some audio difficulties. Me being the smart mouth that I am of course remarked that for once everyone else was having problems and I was not. This of course jinxed the whole night because about three minutes into the program I started sounding like a Battlestar Gallactica Cylon on crack.

Needless to say I had to relinquish my mike to Darrylw4 and XpunkX for the remainder of the evening. Sigh.

The show itself was done very well and was the April Cacher Coffee so a wide range of topics were discussed. If you didn't get a chance to be on Talkshoe last night the actual podcast will be sent out in the next day of so for your listening pleasure. Try to hold back your disappointment. It will be fine. Honest... sigh.

PLEASE be sure to stop by next week (Wednesday, April 13th - 9:30pm EST) for a real opportunity to see HeadHardHat, yours truly, fumble his way through the podcast. It will be interesting because there is a real possibility that Darrylw4 won't be there and so it will be just XpunkX and me. Good times will be had by all. Just remember to show up with plenty of silly string.

Hear you then!



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HeadHardHat't GotD - Walking The Greenways

Beautiful day on the greenway.

Today's Geocache of the Day had me huffing and puffing whilst enjoying some amazing springtime hiking. The sky was blue, sun was shining and I saw more wildlife on this mile long walk. We saw robins, bluebirds, cardinals and even squirrels. Their were a couple of really good hills to get over but I managed. There is no time to get back in shape (round is no longer acceptable) than the present.

Keeping the log dry.

What I found was the typical bison tube in a bush but what I really liked was the use of that plastic container that comes inside the bison when it is shipped. It makes a great protector for the logs within the bison tube. Kudos for the usage.

Welp, because of the amount of time for the walk today I had to go through the drive through and back to work.

Till tomorrow's geocaching adventure...

-HHH





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This Week on Michigan Magazine: Show 1614 World's Largest Dulcimer Festival + Geocaching & Digital Phtography

Recorded on 4/6/2011 Join us for a trip back into time and the 1998 ODPC's 26th annual Fun Fest known by thousands as the EVART DULCIMER FESTIVAL heald in the Mid Michigan community of Evart. Then our Geocaching Guru Andy Head Hard Hat Smith discusses the natural combo of geocaching and digital photography on today's GeoSnippits.



If the viewer above does not display, please click on the link below to see the entire MMTV show.
http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/13808938

You can see GeoSnippits twice each week on Michigan Magazine and the RFDTV Network.

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GOTD - Taking On A Terrain 3 In Street Shoes

Hey gang,
For today's Geocache of the Day. I go pretty much across the street and down a hollar. This fun find taught me two things. One, geocachers are really a creative lot. Two, It is not wise to attempt a terrain 3 geocache in you street shoes. This particular hollar was really steep and really deep. Then toss in thick pine needles and you have your own personal slip n slide. Fortunately I was able to keep upright for the climb but I really should have put on my hiking boots first.
The find itself was very creative and quick once I reached ground zero. What a great way to spend part of one's lunch time.
Till tomorrow's lunch time adventure.

HHH's GCOTD - Doing Shrooms

Well its good to be back to work and now that I am in an extremely saturated area its time to start my daily Geocache of the Day.
Oddly enough, I am not going to show you the actual geocache. Why? For one the view of the nearby lake was worth the rather steep up and downhill climb. That and the geocache was very creative and worth the find. If you check out my find for today and know the name is Mushrooms you should be able to put things together. So enjoy the view and check back tomorrow for more geocaching finds.
Now if I can just get all the pine pollen off my shoes.