As I drove up the winding road to Pacheco, I idly mused upon the inner workings of astrology as I contemplated the threat posed by global warming. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 16 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 62. It was like diamonds on black velvet. Next, I observed Abell 85 in Cygnus. It looked a bit like the invisible man. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I checked out IC 852. It looked uncannily like the exhaust from a diesel Suburban. After that, I nudged my telescope to NGC 58 in that confusing part of Virgo. It somewhat resembled the exhaust from a diesel Suburban. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I found by accident M 20. It shimmered, as if it were the exhaust from a diesel Suburban. Then, for a real challenge, I slewed to NGC 1247. It sparkled like the eye of God. Next, I checked off NGC 2310 in Antlia. It seemed almost the invisible man. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I star-hopped to Abell 83. It seemed almost Krylon Ultra-Flat Black. With that checked off my list, I looked for and suspected Abell 28. It sparkled like a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. Then, I looked for and suspected Abell 8. It took me back to the first time I saw the pillars of creation. Then, I located B 214 in Gemini. It looked exactly like an inflamed monkey butt.
After a short break to warm up in the car, I had a chance to see NGC 595. It appeared in the eyepiece like all the other smudges I've ever looked at. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I jumped to NGC 2389 in Ursa Major. It seemed almost Gollum. After that, I tried for NGC 768. It was better than the pillars of creation.
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.