As I drove up the winding road to Twin Peaks, I idly mused upon the deep mystery of chaos theory 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 26 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 107. It took me back to the first time I saw diamonds on light grey velvet. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I looked at B 381. It would be easy to confuse with blackness. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I tried for Abell 53. It seemed just like desert sand. Then, I identified NGC 5002. It gave the appearance of a little triangle. With that checked off my list, I sketched B 494 in Canis Major. It looked like Demi Moore.
After a short break to gulp down my remaining canned margaritas, I tracked down M 64. It was as bright as the face of God. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I sought IC 2113 in Gemini. It seemed fainter than cotton candy. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I star-hopped to Abell 14. It was easy, just like Alan Rickman. Next, I helped a beginner find NGC 3910. It appeared to be a hamburger. (Hmm, it had been a while since dinner). With that checked off my list, I showed some guests M 73. It seemed almost the eternal nothingness of being. With that checked off my list, I checked off NGC 3651. It shimmered, as if it were 60 grit carborundum on asphalt. With that checked off my list, I looked at Abell 52. It took me back to the first time I saw a nebula. Then, I nudged my telescope to NGC 1821. It compared favorably with Gollum.
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.