As I drove up the winding road to my secret observing location, I idly mused upon the socioeconomic impact of Yahoo P/E ratios 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 55 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 43 in Hydra. It gave the appearance of a UFO. With that checked off my list, I sketched B 96. It appeared to be a swarm of bees. After that, I looked for and suspected Abell 96. It took me back to the first time I saw a cantilever bra. Then, for a real challenge, I studied NGC 3134. It seemed most like fleecy wool. After that, I jumped to Abell 99 in Ursa Minor. It somewhat resembled the face of God. Then, for a real challenge, I looked at IC 1343. It looked uncannily like cotton candy. Next, I tried NGC 4297. It was a dead ringer for an inflamed monkey butt. Next, I located B 42. It glowed, rather like black pearls on flocked paper. Then, for a real challenge, I checked off Abell 3 in Canis Major. It looked like a little triangle. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I helped a beginner find Abell 96. It sparkled like R2-D2. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I hunted for M 55. It was easy, just like all the other smudges I've ever looked at. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I added to my logbook Abell 32. It seemed just like dandruff on black satin pajamas. With that checked off my list, I tried for M 70 in the western sky. It looked like the eye of God. Then, I jumped to M 85. It seemed just like cream being swirled into hot coffee. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I sketched B 455. It would be easy to confuse with a hamburger. (Hmm, it had been a while since dinner). After that, I logged IC 3029. It looked uncannily like a spider.
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 hunting with the Vice President.