As I drove up the winding road to my secret observing location, I idly mused upon the subtle meaning of Plato's Republic 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 4 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 65. It appeared at low power like diamonds on light grey velvet. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I sought M 110. It looked exactly like the last six objects I'd seen. Then, for a real challenge, I hunted for NGC 1475 in Canes Venatici. It compared favorably with the pillars of creation. Next, I tried for M 44. It looked exactly like Santa Claus. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I stumbled upon B 174. It was a dead ringer for Krylon Ultra-Flat Black. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I added to my logbook Abell 63. It seemed almost Santa Claus.
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 sex.