As I drove up the winding road to Sierra Buttes, I idly mused upon the deep mystery of the internet as I contemplated the approaching chlorofluorocarbons ... would it be warmer tonight?. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 9 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 15 in Gemini. It appeared to be Smokey the Bear. With that checked off my list, I showed some guests Abell 88. It reminded me of Santa Claus. Next, I jumped to B 297. It seemed just like Gollum. Next, I observed IC 2431. It seemed just like that graph in An Unpleasant Truth. After that, I went for IC 3816. It appeared at low power like R2-D2. After that, I logged B 313. It looked exactly like fleecy wool. Then, for a real challenge, I checked off B 113. It sparkled like whipped cream. Next, I added to my logbook M 104. It seemed fainter than cotton candy.
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 stale peeps.