The Unusual Nightstand: Behind the Scenes of a Curious Collector
Have you ever gazed wistfully at the contents of your nightstand, wondering what peculiar trinkets and items are hiding there? This article delves into the unique and often overlooked treasures that can be found on a curious collector's bedside table.
The CPAP Machine: A Must-Have for Sleep Apnea
CPAP Machine
On the right side of my nightstand is a CPAP machine, a household necessity for individuals with sleep apnea. Named after the standalone personal approval process, the CPAP machine is a device that delivers a continuous flow of air to the user through a mask to keep the airways open during sleep. According to William Shatner, the well-known actor, he uses one too, indicating its prevalence among those who require it. While my CPAP machine hardly fits the definition of the most unusual item, it's a critical component of my nighttime routine that ensures a good night's rest. Imagine what it would be like to wake up in the middle of the night unable to breathe. This machine is a silent guardian of sleep apnea sufferers.
A Small Mahogany Box: A Memorial to My Beloved Cat
Mahogany Box with Ashes
On the left side is a small, very pretty mahogany box with an ID tag attached, containing the ashes of my beloved cat, Cheeto, 2003–2018. Beside it sits her collar with a tag. The loss of Cheeto remains a tender memory, and having her ashes and her collar nearby provides a comforting reminder of a cherished companion gone too soon. The tag tells a small, personal story, and the box, a testament to our relationship, serves as a keepsake for me, keeping her close at heart.
A Back Scratcher for the Back Scratcher Enthusiast
Long-Handled Back Scratcher
Have you ever woken up in a tizzy, unable to reach that itch in the middle of your back? A long-handled back scratcher might be the answer. This practical and unusual item is a lifesaver, especially in the cold winter months when the air is dry and itchy. In the dead of night, a quick sweep with the back scratcher can provide instant relief, allowing you to fall back into a peaceful slumber.
A Container of Dust: An Experiment in Texture
Container of Dust
Remember that moment in the past when you decided to mess around with dust? Well, I did that. A year ago, I collected and compressed dust, curious about the texture and the possibilities of the resulting material. Today, I still have a container filled with various dust particles, a quirky experiment that continues to fascinate me. Don't question it; just appreciate the oddity.
A Beretta LTT Handgun
Beretta LTT Handgun
In addition to the more unusual items, I keep a Beretta LTT handgun by my side. While not as whimsical as a dust container, it adds a layer of preparedness to my nighttime environment. Safety and security are important considerations for many, and while I hope to never use it, I find comfort in knowing that I have a reliable firearm nearby if the need arises.
A Long-Gone Copper Postcard
Copper Postcard
One of the more unique items on my nightstand is a copper postcard with a historical scene embossed on it. This postcard hails from 60 years ago, a time when it was still possible to send postcards as part of the mail system. It's a tangible piece of history, a reminder of a different era when communication was simpler and more personal. Although it may be impractical today due to modern sorting machines, the postcard holds a special place in my collection.
A Jar of Roasted Peanuts and the Unchanging Thunder 380
Jar of Roasted Peanuts
For good measure, I keep a jar of roasted peanuts on my nightstand. While not as intriguing as the other items, it's a comforting and familiar presence that never seems to disappear. It's a small touch that adds warmth to my evening routine.
Old Fishing Flies Collecting Dust
Fishing Flies
The oddest items of all, the fishing flies, remain untouched on my nightstand. Purchased during a trip to Colorado 17 months ago, these artificial lures have yet to leave their place beside the CPAP machine and the box of dust. They offer an intriguing story about my last fishing adventure and serve as a reminder of past outings and future plans. Whatever the future brings, these flies will continue to grace my bedside table.
From the CPAP machine to the jar of peanuts and everything in between, the items on my nightstand collectively tell a story of my life, my interests, and my unique personality. Each item, whether practical or whimsical, plays a role in my daily routine and the memories they evoke. The nightstand is more than just a place to keep necessities; it's a window into my world.