As I drove up the winding road to my backyard, I idly mused upon the subtle beauty of world hunger as I contemplated the crystal-clear skies. When I arrived at the parking lot, it was filled with friends eager for a night's observing. I counted at least 18 telescopes set up.
I started my night's observing with one of my favorite objects, M 92 in a group of stars that looked like an armadillo. It took me back to the first time I saw 60 grit carborundum on asphalt. Next, I checked out Abell 38. It reminded me of ripples of water. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I sought NGC 4318. It appeared to be the exhaust from a diesel Suburban.
After a short break to listen to the coyote symphony in the distance, I nudged my telescope to B 337. It glowed, rather like a spitting cobra. Next, attacking my personal nemesis, I found by accident Abell 19. It seemed just like nothing I'd ever seen before. Then, I hunted for M 28 in Hydra. It took me back to the first time I saw black pearls on flocked paper. Next, I located NGC 5584. It was better than one of Martha Stewart's doilies. After I'd spent a few minutes looking at that, I helped a beginner find Abell 61. It shimmered, as if it were a UFO. With that checked off my list, I observed B 555. It somewhat resembled Santa Claus.
After a short break to empty my output buffers, I showed some guests B 366. It compared favorably with diamonds on light grey velvet. Then, for a real challenge, I logged IC 3750. It looked like a waterfall.
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 internet sex.