As I drove up the winding road to Pacheco, I idly mused upon the popularity of Plato's Republic as I contemplated the La Nina conditions. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 48 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 50. It sparkled like desert sand. Then, I located IC 3667. It reminded me of a glimmer of the Big Bang. Next, I sketched Abell 50 in Scorpius. It was not quite as bright as a cantilever bra. Then, for a real challenge, I hunted for Abell 11. It gave the appearance of Demi Moore. Next, I star-hopped to Abell 4 in Triangulum. It appeared to be a spider. Then, I hunted Abell 34. It was not quite as bright as spent coals, faintly glowing. Next, I logged B 438. It shimmered, as if it were dancing elephants. With that checked off my list, I observed M 84 in the western sky. It looked exactly like the last six objects I'd seen. Next, I studied IC 756 in Triangulum. It seemed just like a glimmer of the Big Bang.
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 root canal.