As I drove up the winding road to Sierra Buttes, I idly mused upon the deep mystery of the energy crisis as I contemplated the past week of rain. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 39 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 16 in Ursa Major. It compared favorably with the clouds I'd seen earlier. Next, I sketched Abell 48 in Perseus. It appeared at low power like a waterfall. Then, I sought B 230. It seemed most like the eye of God. Then, I stumbled upon IC 3720. It looked like a cantilever bra. After that, I sketched NGC 1304 in Gemini. It glowed, rather like Krylon Ultra-Flat Black.
After a short break to enjoy a nutritious snack, I hunted for M 21. It appeared at low power like R2-D2.
After a short break to cut some cheese, I showed some guests M 99. It appeared to be a smoke ring. Then, for a real challenge, I found IC 174. It looked a bit like Gollum.
After a short break to cut some cheese, I sought IC 48. It somewhat resembled Santa Claus. Next, I logged B 154. It would be easy to confuse with the last six objects I'd seen. With that checked off my list, I accidentally located NGC 2357. It was better than diamonds on black velvet. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I glimpsed IC 2315. It was easy, just like cotton candy. Then, I observed M 21 in Scorpius. It was as bright as the pillars of creation. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I found by accident B 462 in Camelopardalis. It somewhat resembled a dodo bird, extinct but for this celestial likeness.
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 listening to the Monkees Box Set.