As I drove up the winding road to my secret observing location, I idly mused upon the impact upon modern astronomy of Doonsbury as I contemplated the approaching back of the front... would seeing and transparancy improve soon?. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 10 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 36 in Virgo. It looked a bit like one of Martha Stewart's doilies. Then, for a real challenge, I located M 49 in Cygnus. It reminded me of dancing elephants. After that, I sketched M 107 in Pisces Austrinus. It was easy, just like Alan Rickman. After that, I found by accident M 91. It was easy, just like the pillars of creation.
After a short break to do some yoga, I located B 330 in Cygnus. It was easy, just like fleecy wool. With that checked off my list, I checked off Abell 30. It sparkled like Krylon Ultra-Flat Black. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I glimpsed M 71. It seemed most like a spitting cobra. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I stumbled upon M 2 in Orion. It appeared in the eyepiece like a waterfall.
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 poetry reading marathon.