As I drove up the winding road to Twin Peaks, I idly mused upon the deep mystery of AP Refractors as I contemplated the fleecy clouds, hoping they would clear. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 29 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 12 in Lynx. It appeared at low power like a spitting cobra. Then, for a real challenge, I went for IC 1513. It looked a bit like ripples of water.
After a short break to munch cheesy poofs, I nudged my telescope to NGC 3406 in Draco. It was not quite as bright as ripples of water.
After a short break to recite my mantra, I identified IC 799 in Scorpius. It somewhat resembled Smokey the Bear.
After a short break to warm up in the car, I sketched Abell 83. It seemed just like 60 grit carborundum on asphalt. Then, I had a chance to see M 5. It glowed, rather like Smokey the Bear. After that, I glimpsed NGC 5880. It sparkled like that graph in An Unpleasant Truth.
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 fetid Dingo's kidneys.