Definition of Jetlag

So what is jetlag? Well the definition of jetlag according to wikipedia.com

Jetlag is a physical condition caused by crossing multiple time zones during flight. The condition is generally believed to be the result of disruption to the circadian rhythms (i.e. the "light/dark" cycle) of the body. It can also be exacerbated by experiencing sudden changes in climate or seasonal conditions, as well as the reduced oxygen, partial pressure and low humidity commonly experienced in the cabin of an aircraft.

Blah, blah, blah...that was the encyclopedia definition. But jetlag is SO much more than that. Let me tell you...

Jetlag is waking up at 3am and feeling like it's 3pm, like you have enough energy to wash your floor and wallpaper the living room. Jetlag is feeling disorientated if you don't look at a clock and then figure out what time it is back home. Jetlag is feeling like you've run the New York marathon just by walking to the fridge. Jetlag is looking pale, with bloodshot eyes, and the shakes, without having done drugs. Jetlag is feeling incapable of making a decision, even if it means deciding between butter or mayonaise on your sandwich (which you are eating at 3am because your stomach thinks it's lunchtime). Jetlag is wanting to call someone back home and then realizing it is 3am where they are. Jetlag is waking up in a state of disorientation, wondering where you are sleeping, what bed, what house, what COUNTRY? Jetlag is being hard of hearing for at least 24 hours after your last flight because your ears are plugged from the change in air pressure. Jetlag means you have a sinus headache for at least the next 24 hours because of the same. Jetlag is having dry skin, and being thirsty for the next 24 hours because of the dry recycled air on the plane. Jetlag is sitting in a chair and feeling disorienated because you miss the feeling of forward motion that you've experienced for 28 hours straight (including planes, shuttles, buses, taxis, trains, etc). Jetlag is having sudden memory lapses, like forgetting what your mother's maiden name is, what your year of birth was, what your NAME is. (Why do they allow jetlagged people to fill out forms, anyway?) Jetlag is waking up at 3am with the IMMEDIATE need to use the bathroom, but having absolutely NO memory of where the toilet is located. Jetlag is allowing yourself to sleep for 12 straight hours because you've been awake for 36 straight.

That is MY definition of jetlag! : ) Now it may seem like I'm complaining but really I'm having fun! I think the biggest way to fight jetlag is to have a good sense of humor and a good attitude. Oh yeah, and a good set of earplugs so you can sleep. Jetlag is much more fun to experience with other fellow travellers. For instance, you can ask each other questions like, "So how many hours of sleep did you get last night? Oh yeah, I got about 3...better than last night!" "So do you have any tylenol? I can't remember where I packed mine." "Do you remember where the bathroom is?!"

Ah, the joys of jetlag!