As I drove up the winding road to Mount Tamalpais, I idly mused upon the socioeconomic impact of Dilbert as I contemplated the ominous thunderheads on the horizon. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 51 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 106. It appeared as blackness. Next, I located IC 1587 in an unknown constellation that looked like a toaster. It was even more difficult than whispy tendrils of nebulosity. Then, for a real challenge, I looked for and suspected B 606. It reminded me of fleecy wool. After that, I had a chance to see Abell 18. It appeared at low power like a UFO. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I located Abell 71. It compared favorably with a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I found Abell 29. It looked like one of Martha Stewart's doilies.
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 reading Beowulf in Old English.