Ugh...

[Captainkirk]

There's a tinge of orange on the eastern horizon now, one that was glaringly missing when I left the house at 3:00 am...

These early morning flight launches are really hard on the old system; got another one tomorrow. And of course I have to stick around for the flight return, which is generally 10-12 hours later. And of course, I have to work on the other aircraft in between.
It totally throws circadian rhythm and sleep patterns out the window and I generally suffer from what I'll call 'jet lag' for several days after until things return to normal. Man wasn't made for this kind of disorder, methinks.
I guess sometimes we need to vent, is all.

[Carpdaddy]

We knew something was wrong with you, we will blame this for now.

[Captainkirk]

Well, it goes with the territory, Tony.
But, the early mornings/late returns have really increased in frequency the last couple years. Used to be a once or twice a month thing. Now seems like one or more a week.
So, even when I do get time off, I don't feel up to par. Sometimes have zero energy and enthusiasm.
Well, what can ya do besides suck it up and play ball?

[stumper]

I switch days to nights every two weeks. I also just spent the entire last weekend on call. I empathize with you.

[Hill billy]

I worked on commercial fishing boats my first years out of high school in alaska. The hours were ferocious at times. No way i could work your hours now. But im glad someone can. Hang in there!!

[Captainkirk]

Ended up being a 17 hour day door-to-door. Looks like today will be at least 12 hours also.
It was a lot easier when I was a youngster...