As I drove up the winding road to my secret observing location, I idly mused upon the higher implications of the energy crisis 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 32 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 32. It appeared as a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I star-hopped to NGC 332. It seemed just like Smokey the Bear. Then, for a real challenge, I had a chance to see M 31 in a group of stars that looked like an armadillo. It looked like Demi Moore. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I looked for and suspected B 212. It was easy, just like dancing elephants.
After a short break to listen to Mozart, I found by accident NGC 6182 in Canis Major. It was easy, just like spent coals, faintly glowing. Next, I found by accident M 94 in Fornax. It took me back to the first time I saw the exhaust from a diesel Suburban. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I sketched IC 2170. It was better than lumpy darkness. With that checked off my list, I identified IC 70. It gave the appearance of cotton candy. After that, I added to my logbook Abell 19. It would be easy to confuse with diamonds on light grey velvet. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I hunted for B 105 in Hydra. It seemed almost a little triangle. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I helped a beginner find Abell 14 in Sculptor. It was a dead ringer for a swarm of bees. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I tried for Abell 30. It looked a bit like the pillars of creation.
After a short break to listen to Mozart, I helped a beginner find M 31 in a group of stars that looked like an armadillo. It compared favorably with cotton candy. With that checked off my list, I looked for and suspected IC 24. It looked uncannily like yet another globular.
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 hot poker rammed up your nose.