[Az-Geocaching] Logging finds

[listserv@azgeocaching.com]

       OK, were just getting used to cable internet, so forgive the 2 empty 
replies. We usually lurk in the listserv, but this thread of logging finds 
has hit a sensitive spot, so we feel compelled to respond.
       We live in the West Valley, most of our caching is spent one day a 
week traveling 20+ miles to the East Valley to where the majority of the 
caching is. It is difficult to be sooo close to a cache, and not to be able 
to log it because of one reason or another (ie, too many people, losing 
daylight, ect), and knowing it will be another week before we can try it 
again. Most urban caches are designed to be difficult due to the presence of 
people in the area, so that is just a built in device. BUT, we would never 
consider logging a find unless we sign the log. One good example:
       We were trying a certain cache that required figuring out a few clues 
in a large shopping mall to get the coordinates. After finding the clues and 
entering the cords, the cache appeared to be a mile away in a neighborhood. 
The GPS pointed to the front (gated) porch of a home, where we could plainly 
see a container. Being 8PM we decided not to try for the cache and disturb 
the home owners. BUT, instead of logging the find (we were in sight of the 
cache?) we posted a note and sent the owners an email. The cache owners 
responded that although we DID have the right cords, we were NOT in the right 
location! DOH! After checking, we found we entered the cords wrong in the 
GPS! At a later date we sheepishly found the cache and logged the find in the 
logbook.
       Now the moral of this long winded story is: Would it have counted if 
we would have just logged the find, even though we were in the wrong area, 
and we were sure we were right? 
       Technically anyone can log finds without actually finding or logging 
the cache, but I would think the whole sport is FINDING the cache, and 
logging the logbook. I believe that's why most microcaches only have just the 
logbook or sheet.
       Our 2 cents worth and humble opinion, thanks,
 J&T& Harry - Team Spring