NMGeocaching will be highlighting a different New Mexico cacher(s) a couple of times a month. It is our hope that we can learn a little bit more about those whose name we find on the logs!

The first cacher we are presenting is actually a group, MiMi’s Mob of Las Cruces. They currently have logged 542 caches and have hidden 20 caches, two of which are events.

So now, lets meet Mimi’s Mob...

Who is Mimi’s Mob composed of?

Mimi’s Mob consists of Arlis Rhodes (Dad and the primary cacher), Pamela Rhodes (Mom), Kylie Rhodes (6 years old - where the name Mimi originally came from), and Daniel Rhodes (3 years old).

Are you two originally from NM? Any background that you would want to share with others..work, hobbies, ect?

Arlis is a Texas native, but now calls NM his home after living here for 31 years. Pamela is from the Anthony, NM area and her family still farms in the Mesilla Valley. Arlis is employed by the Sheriff’s Dept in Las Cruces, and Pamela is a 4th grade teacher in the Las Cruces area (San Miguel, NM).

How did you all get into geocaching?

We started caching after reading an article in Discover magazine, which led to buying a used GPS, and then another new one, and a laptop, and DeLorme programs, and …..

Favorite cache found?

Our favorite caches usually have a historical significance. The Tonuco petroglyphs cache was really fun. What makes it more memorable is the fact that Dad fell on a cactus bush which really slowed things down and we were hiking down the canyon as darkness approached.

How was your event hosting experience?

Hosting an event cache is a lot of fun – and work. We really enjoyed the planning with other cachers, and getting to know people from the area. Lots of work, but lots of fun.

How is NM caching different from the other states you have cached in?

NM caching can be unique since there is so much open land. Other states, especially back east, have fewer opportunities due to urban sprawl. Vermont had some really beautiful cache locations, which really take you off of the main roads to some beautiful rural areas. Not good for winter caching though – which is really not a problem in NM.

Is there a geocache out there that you haven’t found that is #1 on your must do list?

I think the whole family would enjoy the Singing Rock cache east of Socorro. That area is a must do for our family – hopefully this spring.

Any NM cacher that you haven’t met that you want to meet?

We have not yet met a cacher that we have not enjoyed getting to know. They are like old friends that we haven’t met yet. Cache events are really the easiest way to meet new people, especially in large numbers.

What could be done to grow the caching community down south?

I think that a large event in the southern part of the state would be great to bring the caching family together. There are a lot of people involved, but their paths do not cross often.