Part of the Family Fun Introduction to Geocaching Series around Waneka Lake
Squirrel's Stash Cache - Now a Mini Cache
The first cache in the series by my daugther 'SmudgieCat'. She searched for a week until she found just the right spot. She especially hopes families will work together to find and log this wonderful cache. Check out the nearby caches, all meant to be a fun Family Friendly Introduction to Geocaching.
Sadly, this cache has been viciously muggled four times, and we have lost years of beautiful pokemon drawings in the log book. (Shame on those people). This is now a mini Stash Cache (full of very tiny little treasures), which is also called a SWAG (Stuff We All Get) Cache. The items are there for trade and passing on to other caches. In other words, you choose something to pass along to other caches in the cacheoverse and you leave behind something of equal or greater value to replace the item you took to pass on. Remember that is has to be small in size.
Also, technically this is now an "evil" cache because it is really well camoflagued to avoid being muggled while still being near the location of the original cache. The new cache blends in really, REALLY well with its surroundings. Be willing to do a lot of experimenting with the native items you find at these coordinates. Put it back just exactly as you find it, please. Add a small bit of force to be sure it stays in place.
Note: This cache is a bit harder to find than its 2.0 rating, but caches above this rating require a paid membership to see. I wanted to keep these caches free for families to learn about Geocaching, so I have set the ratings lower than they actually are.
MUGGLE WARNING!
Muggles are people who are unaware of Geocaching (feel free to turn them into Geo Witches/Warlocks). Sadly, Muggles have been known to pillage/take/destroy caches either out of their lack of knowledge or out of other less than savory motivations. This cache is on an exceptionally busy muggle route, so be sure no one notices you removing the cache or replacing it. Be a bit stealthy ... like you're sneaking a cookie from the pantry while your parents are in the kitchen. Different versions of this cache have been muggled 4 times!
GEOCACHING ETIQUETTE
1. Put Back as Found: Pay careful attention to exacly how you remove a cache from its hiding spot, as you you should put it back exactly the same way. Note: Not everyone does this. Look for any instructions the Cache Owner (CO) provides on how the cache should be removed or put back. This includes any requests to place any native camo back over the cache.
2. Sign the Log: The paper log is there to track those cool people who have found the cache and provide a rich history to both the owners and the finders. In addition to logging online, be sure sign and date the paper log. And of course, fill out the digital log on your App or computer, as well. When you can, take the time to write something nice or fun about your hunt and find ... the CO will really appreciate it.
3. Be Discrete: Muggles aboud, and not all become Dumbledors ... some go the way of Voldemort. Don't be too obvious in your hunt or finds.
4. Field Reports: If you find anything wrong with the cache, or see a problem, let the CO know via your log or a message.
5. Favorites: If you really enjoyed the hunt or find, be sure to Favorite the cache in the App or on your computer. That will give the CO a smile and let other Cachers know that this is a good cache to find.
6. Repairs: If you find a cache that has been damaged, consider rendering any first-aid you can until the CO can come and perform any requirerd surgery. For example, if the log is missing, leave a bit of paper in the cache to use as a temorary log. If the cache has been left open in the rain, dry it out as much as you can before closing it up. Small repairs mean a lot to a long-term cache.
Look for our other nearby caches in the Family Fun Intro to Geocaching Series:
- Watch the Birdie Cache
- Naruto Team 7 Stash Cache
- Kick Back, Stretch Out Cache
- Oh No! Not a Tree Hanger Cache
- The Cube Root of Twenty-seven Cache
- Boathouse View Cache
- Mule Side Cache
- The Likey Lichen Cache (requires membership)
Don't forget to leave a Favorite if you like the hunt and find!
