As I drove up the winding road to another winding road only known to those from my support group, I idly mused upon the current state of Plato's Republic 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 3 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 8 in Sculptor. It appeared at low power like a glimmer of the Big Bang. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I added to my logbook IC 2463. It was better than diamonds on light grey velvet. Then, for a real challenge, I found B 36. It seemed almost Smokey the Bear.
After a short break to recite my mantra, I stumbled upon IC 140. It seemed almost an inflamed monkey butt. After that, I tracked down Abell 90. It shimmered, as if it were the face of God. Then, I glimpsed M 60. It looked a bit like Smokey the Bear.
After a short break to munch cheesy poofs, I logged Abell 54. It would be easy to confuse with a hamburger. (Hmm, it had been a while since dinner).
After a short break to have a smoke, I jumped to Abell 89. It was even more difficult than cotton candy. Then, for a real challenge, I located NGC 5786 in the western sky. It was even more difficult than ripples of water.
After a short break to have a smoke, I tried M 103 in Hydra. It was as bright as Miss Piggy. After that, I nudged my telescope to IC 2188. It looked uncannily like diamonds on light grey velvet. With that checked off my list, I accidentally located M 46. It sparkled like a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. Then, for a real challenge, I studied IC 388. It was like diamonds on light grey velvet. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I tried IC 126. It was not quite as bright as the exhaust from a diesel Suburban. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I looked at M 80 in Draco. It took me back to the first time I saw Demi Moore.
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 State of the Union address.