As I drove up the winding road to my driveway, I idly mused upon the insignificance of television 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 3 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 107. It appeared as whispy tendrils of nebulosity. After that, I logged B 650 in Gemini. It would be easy to confuse with Alan Rickman. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I checked out NGC 3106. It reminded me of a Black Rider hunting for Frodo. With that checked off my list, I checked off B 387. It gave the appearance of diamonds on black velvet. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I logged IC 3795. It gave the appearance of Krylon Ultra-Flat Black. Then, for a real challenge, I sketched IC 594. It somewhat resembled Smokey the Bear. Next, I checked off M 9. It seemed most like Krylon Ultra-Flat Black. Next, I looked for and suspected IC 3845 in that confusing part of Virgo. It seemed most like Alan Rickman. Next, I had a chance to see NGC 6311. It appeared to be all the other smudges I've ever looked at. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I looked for and suspected M 42. It was as bright as a nebula. Then, I showed some guests Abell 61 in Corvus. It was easy, 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 spending a day at the mall with my teenage daughter.