As I drove up the winding road to Henry Coe State Park, I idly mused upon the current state of Doonsbury as I contemplated the crystal-clear skies. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 9 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 96. It was as bright as one of Martha Stewart's doilies. Next, I logged M 29. It glowed, rather like its Hubble photograph. Then, for a real challenge, I identified M 102 in the western sky. It took me back to the first time I saw Santa Claus. Then, I stumbled upon IC 3170. It seemed most like cotton candy. Then, for a real challenge, I found by accident IC 2899. It reminded me of desert sand.
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 sitting in a dentist's waiting room.