Geocaching Success!

Okay, I did it, I went Geocaching to see what all the hype is about. First off I created a Geocaching alter ego---GatorCT. I then enlisted the help of my nephew and niece luring them with the prospect of pirate treasure. We biked to three separate cache locations. We had two unsuccessful attempts that may have been a result of human error, or muggles. At our third Cache location, we were able to discover the cache---a small black film canister. We signed our fake names, GatorCT and Bragonston. 

After one successful geocaching adventure, we are hooked, and have a healthy and exciting activity that will offer us another outdoor activity this summer. I think our next GPS induced outing will take place tomorrow. 

These caches are everywhere. Chances are there is probably one within a mile of where you are right now. Check it out at www.geocaching.com and participate in the hunt.

Watch out for muggles. 

Geocaching

Today, the University of Florida's student newspaper, the Independent Florida Alligator ran a story about a UF student that was involved in Geocaching as a hobby. Geocaching being searching for hidden objects, lists and treasures. Rather than using Pirate methods of looking for booty with crusty maps, modern Geocachers use hand help GPS systems to guide them on their journey. 

Why do these people do this? Not because it is pointless. They do it as an impetus for getting outside to explore new places.  To test their ability to navigate and to find hidden objects. Or as a challenge to see who can race to an object the fastest. 

Before reading this, I had heard of geocaching before, but had never given it a second thought. It certainly is not a flashy hobby, and chicks certainly will not dig it. But most girls have crappy hobbies anyway... scrap booking, cooking, cleaning, giving birth to children, etc. 

Anyway, I decided that Geocaching was an activity that I might want to try out. My brother-in-law owns a handheld GPS, and I am going to borrow it and explore this great earth one latitude at a time. In my research, I discovered http://www.geocaching.com/ which allows users to search for caches in their local area, or anywhere they may be going. I hope to have my inaugural attempt this weekend, and will keep everyone a-Breast of my explorations. 

REI Gear Garage Sale

This post only really applies for Adventurers in the Chicagoland Area, but the REI in Oakbrook Terrace is having their members only gear garage sale this Saturday. If you do nto know what REI is, you should do your research, because it is one of the best outdoor activity stores around. 

When: 4/4/2009 9AM- 2PM

The Details: 

Up to 80% off of used gear. 

Gear or clothing that was returned, damaged out, slightly flawed or is dirty. You never know what you will find: packs, tents, footwear, rain jackets, snowboards, GPS, maybe even a bike or kayak. 

Only members can purchase from the garage sale. Not a member, you can join. Lifetime membership is only $20. 

Garage sale items are sold as-is, and as priced.

Location: REI Oakbrook Terrace

 17W160 22nd St. 

 Oakbrook Terrace, IL 

 41° 50.8' N

  87° 57.783' W