Of Hobbits and Orangutans, part 2

Tomorrow night we're in for a treat, with the last full lunar eclipse for the next couple of years. So step outside between 7:30-9:30 CST or so, bring some friends, bring some beer, and enjoy the show.

This does make me recall that I never completed the tale started many months ago, of another stargazing event. Well, my friends, sit back and enjoy this second installment.

After dining at the Cosmic Cafe, we made our way to the northern realms of the DFW metroplex. There, I came across a fellow named Nick who I hadn't seen in... almost 10 years? Good lord... anyhow, Nick has been doing pretty well for himself, and hasn't changed much from what I could tell. Still into computers, games, and movies. A bit heavier than he was as a teen, but most of us are. There we shot the breeze in his living room (or is it a computer lab? Not sure) while we waited for the ridiculously late show to start. Alex participated by snoring quietly in a corner. As the time approached for us to head out further north to escape the light pollution and hopefully the clouds that were threatening to deprive our fun, the 3 of us (Kevin and Alex) packed some sleeping bags and took off to Lake Ray Roberts.

Why don't I do this more often? It was beautiful, and even better shared in the company of friends. It might have been nicer if I had taken some Zyrtec before we arrived, because shortly after I felt like I had an unlimited supply of snot and tears. I blame the ragweed. Undaunted, we lay on the grass, talked, snoozed a bit, and watched for shooting stars. We were rewarded.

As the sun rose and diminished our view of the sky, we hopped back into the car and drove to Denton, where we dined on bagels and coffee. And it was good.