As I drove up the winding road to Dinosaur Point, I idly mused upon the socioeconomic impact of Norse mythology as I contemplated the shrinking ozone layer. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 12 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 6. It looked like a smoke ring. Next, I slewed to IC 2539. It was not quite as bright as yet another globular. With that checked off my list, I tried IC 772. It gave the appearance of a hamburger. (Hmm, it had been a while since dinner). Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I hunted for M 18. It looked a bit like the eye of God. After that, I checked off Abell 45 in Perseus. It looked a bit like a spider. Next, I looked at M 61. It would be easy to confuse with a swarm of bees. Next, I went for B 1 in Serpens. It took me back to the first time I saw that graph in An Unpleasant Truth. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I studied NGC 5554. It reminded me of Krylon Ultra-Flat Black.
After a short break to walk around, I sought IC 3611. It seemed just like yet another globular.
After a short break to do some yoga, I logged Abell 60 in Lynx. It was easy, just like Smokey the Bear. Then, I stumbled upon B 462. It looked like one of Martha Stewart's doilies. Then, I looked for and suspected Abell 45 in Lynx. It shimmered, as if it were lumpy darkness. Then, for a real challenge, I identified M 42. It glowed, rather like Demi Moore. Then, I tried IC 1443. It appeared to be R2-D2.
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 spending the evening reading blogs.