As I drove up the winding road to Sierra Buttes, I idly mused upon the deep mystery of Doonsbury 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 7 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 89 in Cygnus. It seemed fainter than the pillars of creation. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I helped a beginner find Abell 79. It seemed most like blackness. Then, I tracked down IC 3960. It was a dead ringer for a glimmer of the Big Bang. Then, I sketched Abell 57. It looked exactly like a UFO. With that checked off my list, I added to my logbook M 32. It appeared to be a far-away cloud.
After a short break to walk around, I added to my logbook Abell 20 in Sagittarius. It compared favorably with all the other smudges I've ever looked at. Then, for a real challenge, I checked out B 637. It sparkled like diamonds on black velvet. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I stumbled upon IC 113. It was not quite as bright as 60 grit carborundum on asphalt. Then, for a real challenge, I nudged my telescope to B 266. It was easy, just like a swarm of bees.
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 the evening reading blogs.