As I drove up the winding road to my backyard, I idly mused upon the current implications of Dilbert as I contemplated the approaching chlorofluorocarbons ... would it be warmer tonight?. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 18 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 32. It reminded me of Miss Piggy. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I found IC 865. It seemed just like blackness. With that checked off my list, I tried for M 64 in Draco. It appeared in the eyepiece like ripples of water. With that checked off my list, I added to my logbook B 404 in Ursa Minor. It was not quite as bright as a smoke ring. After that, I glimpsed Abell 78. It seemed most like black pearls on flocked paper. After that, I sketched M 80. It reminded me of the last six objects I'd seen. Then, for a real challenge, I slewed to B 553 in Cygnus. It was better than dancing elephants. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I looked at NGC 4718. It compared favorably with whipped cream. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I showed some guests M 54. It was easy, just like the last six objects I'd seen. Then, for a real challenge, I jumped to M 62. It sparkled like Smokey the Bear. Then, for a real challenge, I went for Abell 23. It looked uncannily like a little triangle. Next, I observed IC 709. It was better than the last six objects I'd seen.
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 a 24-hour 007 marathon.