As I drove up the winding road to Mount Tamalpais, I idly mused upon the deep impact of my 401K as I contemplated the past week of rain. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 50 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 43 in Sagittarius. It was a blurry likeness of one of Martha Stewart's doilies. With that checked off my list, I found by accident M 37. It was easy, just like 60 grit carborundum on asphalt. Then, I showed some guests B 177. It looked a bit like the pillars of creation. After that, I glimpsed Abell 44 in Gemini. It looked exactly like 60 grit carborundum on asphalt. Then, for a real challenge, I looked at Abell 31. It was a dead ringer for dancing elephants. Then, I sought Abell 44 in Hydra. It reminded me of the eye of God. After that, I showed some guests B 121. It seemed most like its Hubble photograph. Then, I observed IC 2041 in Triangulum. It was as bright as whispy tendrils of nebulosity. Next, I checked out B 125 in Ursa Major. It was a dead ringer for Krylon Ultra-Flat Black.
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 cleaning the bathroom.