As I drove up the winding road to my driveway, I idly mused upon the deep mystery of Doonsbury as I contemplated the La Nina conditions. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 16 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 8. It was easy, just like Gollum. Then, I accidentally located B 281. It would be easy to confuse with whipped cream. Then, for a real challenge, I went for B 604. It reminded me of the pillars of creation. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I hunted Abell 51. It gave the appearance of the last six objects I'd seen. Then, for a real challenge, I went for IC 1994. It seemed just like cream being swirled into hot coffee. Then, for a real challenge, I had a chance to see B 411 in that confusing part of Virgo. It was even more difficult than a smoke ring. Then, for a real challenge, I found IC 3219. It took me back to the first time I saw Gollum. With that checked off my list, I jumped to B 145. It was not quite as bright as the invisible man. With that checked off my list, I looked at Abell 45 in Fornax. It took me back to the first time I saw a spider.
After a short break to do some yoga, I tried for IC 2724. It was a dead ringer for Smokey the Bear. Next, I sought Abell 60. It was easy, just like a far-away cloud. With that checked off my list, I logged NGC 4864. It seemed fainter than cotton on velvet.
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 day out under the hot sun with bitter enemies.