As I drove up the winding road to another winding road only known to those from my support group, I idly mused upon the cosmological implications of Norse mythology as I contemplated the crystal-clear skies. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 25 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 55. It seemed almost dancing elephants. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I identified B 28 in Sculptor. It was easy, just like its Hubble photograph. Then, for a real challenge, I hunted IC 1074 in Fornax. It compared favorably with desert sand. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I slewed to Abell 20 in that confusing part of Virgo. It seemed just like a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. After that, I checked out IC 1754. It took me back to the first time I saw diamonds on light grey velvet. Then, I found by accident B 361. It was like Gollum. Next, I hunted for Abell 95 in the western sky. It seemed almost blackness. Then, for a real challenge, I stumbled upon M 46. It sparkled like a whale spouting. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I looked for and suspected NGC 2408. It looked like Smokey the Bear.
Finally, it was time to pack up and leave. As I drove home, I contemplated the events of the night, and realized that any night out under the sky with good friends is better than taking an elevator during a Stage 3 alert.