As I drove up the winding road to the middle of nowhere, I idly mused upon the subtle meaning of the internet as I contemplated the approaching back of the front... would seeing and transparancy improve soon?. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 58 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 92 in a group of stars that looked like an armadillo. It seemed most like the eye of God. With that checked off my list, I hunted for IC 509. It was not quite as bright as a little triangle. With that checked off my list, I located IC 1073 in Cygnus. It seemed most like Alan Rickman. Then, I located NGC 2170. It took me back to the first time I saw dancing elephants. Then, for a real challenge, I helped a beginner find M 92. It would be easy to confuse with cotton candy.
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 hot poker rammed up your nose.