U.S. withdraws from Iraq

After almost 9 years in Iraq, the United States military has finally withdrawn from the country. Even after nine years, I'm still trying to figure out why were there in the first place. The only concrete thing I can put my finger on is its cost: 4,500 American lives and $800+ billion.

Thanks, George!

Kim Jong Il dead

South Korea reports that North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Il, has died.

Healthcare

The CDC reports that about 2.5 million more Americans now have health insurance because of what Republicans have termed "Obamacare."

I say if there are 2,500,000 people (and young people, too) who now have access to decent healthcare insurance, then Obamacare is a perfectly acceptable program in my book!

Rick Perry

Did Rick Perry just say "caughted" in the Iowa Republican debate?

Moths and Feathers

"Moths and feathers" are the only things currently in the country's treasury, according to Representative Michele Bachmann.

11/11/11

I just had to post!

Governor Steve Beshear re-elected

Was there ever any doubt that Democratic incumbent, Steve Beshear, would beat his Republican rival, Senate President David Williams, for the office of governor? I don't think there was much in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

In fact, David Williams predicted tonight's outcome during KET's last gubernatorial debate (October 31) when he alluded to his return to the Kentucky Senate after the election was complete. I think that is called a Freudian Slip, people!

Conrad Murray Guilty

Dr. Conrad Murray, the Houston doctor charged with the involuntary manslaughter of Michael Jackson, in June 2009, was found guilty by a jury in Los Angeles this afternoon.

Gadhafi Dead

Colonel Muammar Gadhafi was the latest casualty of the NATO-led civil war in Libya. I have heard many conflicting reports, but they did show video and pictures of him bloodied, and then dead. The circumstances may never been known.

The Cake is Baked!

Michele Bachmann just won my vote with her closing comment of, "The cake is baked!"

Let's go USA!

SSRI Holiday Ended

Well, after I thought I could go off of Lexapro, I am now back on the drug at 10mg per day. My job, coupled with daily stress, turned out to be more than I could handle. I am not sure if it is a physiological response or a psychosomatic one, but I found myself becoming increasingly hostile toward my job, and daily life, in general. In addition, I found the "brain zaps," or any trace thereof, ended within two days of resuming my daily Lexapro regimen. I feel much better as a result of taking Lexapro again.

(Yes, I'm a bit tipsy from Stoli, but this was on my mind.)

Niggerhead

Texas Governor Rick Perry stated that he found the name of his family's former hunting lodge to be offensive. I would say so, considering it was "Niggerhead." Of course, that didn't deter him, or his family, from enjoying the time they spent at the lodge over the years.

It's a shame that people--in their right minds--would think this man is fit to be a candidate, Republican or otherwise, for the office of President of the United States!

Racist and extreme to say the least!

Disturbed by Google

Google how could you design such a disturbing Google Doodle? It's Jim Henson's 75th birthday, and Google, in partnership with Jim Henson studios (or something), designed one of their famous doodles for people to tinker around with on the search engine's website. It so happens that one of the creatures (i.e., puppets) eats its neighbor. Even as a grown up, I find that slightly disturbing.

But it's all in fun, right? After all, a frog can fall in love with a pig!

Lexapro & Brain Zaps

After more than a week off of Lexapro, my brain zap sensation is more than 90% gone. I may have had two at the most today. And, even those, were quite mild and unnoticeable.

In other news, I thought I felt depressed yesterday, so I treated myself to a DQ Mocha Moolatte and felt a lot better. Sometimes chocolate and ice cream is exactly what a person needs to combat the blues!

SSRI Holiday

Last Thursday marked my last dose of Lexapro.

Let me clarify. First off, I didn't quit out of choice. I simply ran out in the beginning. I had to get my prescription refilled. In the meantime, I got the idea of waiting to see what would happen if I didn't take my daily 10mg.

For about a year, I have been wondering what life would be like post-Lexapro. I have been afraid to go off of it for various reasons. One of course, being that I may go into a deep, dark depression. That hasn't happened. In fact, I feel pretty good. My mind is clearer, as a result of not taking it. I have noticed that sometimes my brain feels like it is pulsing. (Those may be called "brain zaps.") It's like when the electricity almost goes off, but it comes back on at the last second. I do not feel as if I will pass out, though. It is just a curious sensation. Dizziness and tinnitus were also initial withdrawal symptoms. They have since gone.

Lexapro has been like looking at the world through a foggy glass. You see the major points, but you often miss the small things. Also, my ability to think has improved. Before, I felt like a babbling fool on occasions. I was often lost for a word, or my mind drifted from one subject to another in mid-sentence, which is slightly embarrassing. I had no control over it.

If the proverbial lights stay on in my head, I may extend this holiday to a more indefinite date.

Accutane & Acne (Days 153-207)

After being on Accutane for over half of a year now, I am happy to report that my skin is acne free! My skin feels reborn. The only thing now to work on is the hyperpigmentation of former blemishes. I have been using a 5% glycolic facial wash, by DDF, which is really nice. Even though, my skin is blemish free, I still take 40mg of Accutane three to four times a week. Before, I was taking it daily (sometimes twice daily). It is a good maintenance program for me at this time. Of course, I will endeavor to wean myself completely from the drug in the coming months; even though, my dermatologist informed me that she takes 40mg once a week. She said it keeps collagen built up in her skin; I agree.

I did bloodwork on Friday, and I have an appointment with my dermatologist on Tuesday. I hope everything is a-ok!

Sinus & Allergies

I spent part of today at the doctor's office. My allergies have been killing me this season. I usually can control them with Zyrtec or Allegra and a little Flonase, but not this time. In fact, it had escalated--like things often do--into a sinus and lung infection.

I received two shots in the butt: Rocephin and Decadron. Also, prescriptions for Cipro, Prednisone and Singulair. I felt like I could run a mile shortly after receiving my Decadron injection! There's nothing like a steroid to take you out of a funk.

I was also quite surprised when my opinion was sought on my preference for an oral antibiotic. I was asked how I liked the infamous Z-Pack. I said, "No way!" Usually, I have to bring up that conversation. I just don't care for it. So I opted for Cipro. I don't know why some doctors see azithromycin as the cure all for all ailments. One day I'll be diagnosed with AIDS or cancer and the doctor will put me on a Z-Pack!

Seriously!

Time for Some Balls?

House Speaker John "Cries a Lot" Boehner (R-OH) recently rejected a presidential request to a Joint Session of Congress to address the creation of new jobs. Boehner requested that the address be postponed for a day, as to allow for adequate "security measures" in the House chamber of Congress. It just so happens, of course, Republican presidential candidates are set to debate that same night.

Hmmmm....sounds a bit fishy to me.

If it were me (as president), I'd bust some balls of my own. Sure, the House of Representatives may reject me, but that wouldn't deter me from making my speech on my own terms. Who needs to the House of Representatives anyhow to do it? Personally, since the Senate is Democratic-controlled, I'd go to the Senate chamber and make my speech to the nation. Unprecedented? Of course. But so is denying the President's request for a Joint Session of Congress. As a matter of courtesy, I would invite members of the House to the Senate, if they felt so inclined. Boehner: non persona gratis.

As you may have already guessed, President Obama acquiesced to the demands of Speaker Boehner and rescheduled HIS speech. I suppose Republicans can add this to their "win" category. When is the President of the United States going to realize that his political party controls the executive branch and a house of Congress? It's time to put House Republicans in their place and truly get on with the business of America. If you really think about it, how is the President going to get House Republicans to join him on his jobs initiative if he can't even get them to allow him to make a simple speech?

Duh!

Libyan Independence: Homegrown or Out-Sourced?

After seeing the jubiliant throngs of rebels taking to the streets of a seemingly annexed Tripoli, I am left with a few questions about how these rebels came so far so fast.

My concerns were brought back to the forefront of my mind when I was watching a video provided by CNN, in which the reporter, who was at Gadhafi's former stronghold, Bab al-Aziziya, commented that a rather large crater in the center of the compound's grounds was caused by a NATO bomb.

Now, if I am led to believe that those machine gun toting, 1999 Abercrombie & Fitch wearing, hooting and showboating rebel soldiers did all this by themselves, does that make me a chump?

The answer, I'm afraid, is yes.

If we recall this revolution, as it were, started in the eastern part of Libya. Gadhafi's forces were pushing toward the rebel stronghold of Benghazi about the same time the United Nations called for a ceasefire and the institution of a no-fly zone. Of course, Gadhafi forces were unwilling to accept these terms in the long-term. Why? Because the apparant words of the United Nations only applied to Gadhafi forces and not those of the rebels. Clearly, in this case, what was good for the goose was no where good enough for the gander.

In the days and weeks following this mandate, NATO-led forces, including France and the United States, commenced bombarding Gadhafi loyal forces and strongholds from the sea and air. All the while, rebel forces waltzed west facing only token resistance. Anything stronger from Gadhafi forces meant a whooping by NATO from the sky.

While countries like Tunisia and Egypt can say their revolution was homegrown and delivered by their own people, Libya is not in a similiar situation. Libyan forces relied on a friendly hand from Europe and America to do the work they were unable to do.

So, while watching the smiling faces of rebel forces in Libya, remember there truely is an invisible, wrathful hand watching over them from above. And I'm not talking about a man in a white beard, either.

Muammar Gadhafi: Phone Home!

With rebel forces taking over Tripoli, Libya's capital, the world is now looking for it's de facto leader for over forty years, Colonel Muammar Gadhafi. When the mob entered his fortified Tripoli compound, Bab al-Aziziya, none of the Gadhafis were home.

It's weird because you would think Colonel Gadhafi would be there, since there was no warning beforehand that rebels were on their way.

(I'm so sarcastic!)

NPR reported that the rebel leaders think they will find Gadhafi, because the Iraqis found Hussein after a man-hunt. I'm not so sure Gadhafi will fall for it. He's had time to plan. He seems like a man who would have an exit strategy worked out. I wouldn't be surprised to find out he is now in Caracas!

S&P: AAA

Congratulations to the United States government for getting downgraded from AAA credit status to AA+. While AA+ seems pretty impressive, it puts the United States below its Western European allies, such as the United Kingdom, France and Germany, in terms of debt repayment, etc.

Tomorrow, when the world markets open up, I'm sure we will see a crash. I want to thank members of the Tea Party, and the Republican Party, in general, for its contribution to the downgrade. The eleventh-hour deal did little to salvage the nation's economy.

The country's economy is still stagnant (just look at unemployment figures and small business growth over the last six months). Like I've said numerous times, it is time to end the wars and return that money to the Treasury where it belongs. We will spend the next decade recovering from the George W. Bush years in the White House; it's better to get started now rather than wait. After all, China has threatened to cut-up America's credit card over the downgrade!

Did Boehner Cry?

It's time for the President to invoke the Republican staple, the George W. Bush clause, as a measure to deal with the debt ceiling crisis. He has to raise the debt limit without congressional approval. George W. Bush didn't need the approval of Congress for 95% of the things he did, so why should Obama? He can't let something as tedious as the United States Constitution get in his way.

No sir!

Soccer

Japan irradiates the U.S., wins World Cup!

(Is that in poor taste?)

Roman Empire

As politicians in Washington use the debt ceiling as political leverage, I am reminded of the end days of the Western Roman Empire.

Rome, at its height, was the greatest civilization to ever exist. It was truly the beacon, sitting on seven hills along the Tiber River, for the whole world to gape in awe. Many of its citizens lived unparalleled lives of posh and hedonism, while few of them had any care or knowledge of the pain and suffering of the other world that existed beyond their vast borders.

Years of the good life had taken a toll on the Roman Empire's ability to function as it once did. Years of war, political greed and corruption, out of control spending, and utter neglect, had brought what some called "The Great Whore" to her knees, and eventually to a mouthful of dust as she collapsed, losing life--finally to die at the hands of the very barbarians she had easily slaughtered by the thousands before her less than stellar demise.

The beacon on the hill was no more. It's people left to fend for themselves as the light fell dim--the Dark Ages.

I have heard, in the past, the United States compared to Rome. I never thought that the United States would actually come to the brink of decay it is now. Perhaps, I didn't want to believe it possible in my lifetime. Like those in Rome, I simply was unable to fathom the very destruction of my nation from within, through my very way of life.

That's a very bleak look at the state of things in this country. We have Republicans and Democrats bargaining away our future in dark rooms and corridors, far away from the light of observation of the people they so eagerly attest to serve. The United States may default on trillions of dollars of debt. The Treasury Department says we have until August 2, but I feel as if that was a rather optimistic view of things. An increase in rhetoric from the White House and Congress has led me to believe that zero hour is now upon us. The world's stock markets are taking notice of Damocles' sword hanging over the largest economic powerhouse in the world. Truly, what will happen to the world economy if the United States is unable to pay its debt? I do not think anyone really knows what will happen; it is without precedent.

America's economy is bloated. The unemployed are in the millions; however, money to the wars is free flowing and only serving to further bankrupt us, those who we once had no fear of are watching closely, as the modern-day whore swells. Their wagons are circling.

America the great, the light is dimming and your ungrateful children continue to need more.

Accutane & Acne (Days 116-152)

Since my last update, my acne situation has been in remission. Only this morning I was reminded of acne when I woke up to find a single pimple on my right cheek. It was sort of a let down, but let's face it, one zit in three or four weeks is better than three or four zits every day!

I'm taking one 40mg Accutane each day. I am going to take two Accutane today, a 10mg Prednisone, and a topical application of Topicort directly to the zit. If it doesn't go down in swelling by tonight, I will step up from Topicort to Vanos.

I feel like a dermatologist!

Healthcare

See if you've heard this joke.

A man walks into a bank and hands the teller a note demanding $1 and healthcare. He waits patiently for the police to respond to the robbery and take him into custody. As a ward of the state, he is now receiving the healthcare he couldn't afford on his own.

The only thing is that this really happened. It isn't a joke. It was a reality, recently, for a 59-year-old North Carolina man. As Republicans and Democrats wage a war on the cost of national healthcare--whether you want to call it "Obamacare" or "Obamneycare"--there are people who cannot afford to receive life saving health care. They can't afford medications, medical procedures, or long-term life extending care, whether in public or private facilities.

Our country has the money and medical resources to guarantee each American top-notch medical care for those who cannot afford it through no fault of their own, whether or not they are homeless, laid off from work, injured, and the list can continue.

As American taxpayers foot the bill for two wars, which cost ten-of-billions of dollars annually, we allow our own citizens to suffer and die needlessly. Besides these two wars, we are set to fight another one in Libya. It's time for President Obama to live up to his promise of ending the Bush wars. Thus, bringing home those billions of dollars dumped into a bottomless blackhole located on the other side of the globe. There is no hope that these wars will ever end satisfactorily. My suggestion is to stop Libya before it begins in earnestness. It's not our fight. We weren't there when it began in 1969, why do we insist on being there at the end in 2011? Yes, innocent people are dying there, but the same is true about the United States. In the final analysis, who deserves our money most?

Republican Debate

The first Republican presidential debate of the 2012 primary season was held last night in Manchester, New Hampshire. I have to say it was probably a waste of time. I watched bits and pieces of it, but it was mostly attack Barack Obama and high praise of Ronald Reagan, who was president in a different time and climate.

Surprisingly, I didn't hear another Republican hero lauded. I am speaking, of course, of George W. Bush.

Weinergate

Who wants to see the pics that Congressman Anthony Weiner tweeted to me? Not to mention the inappropriate banter he forced me to read!

Oh Lordy! When will these politicians learn?

Accutane & Acne (Days 94-115)

Eureka!

I can report that for the past week I have been completely breakout free for the first time in about 19 years!

I first started getting spotty acne when I was 12 years old. For me, it is hard to believe that most people move beyond this skin ailment by the end of their teens and certainly by the beginning of their twenties; however, for me, I have been living with it for the majority of my life. The twenties were no relief, and my thirties certainly showed no sign of recovery. As I move into the end of my treatment, I am now concerned that once I stop taking isotretinoin that my acne may return. My dermatologist said in that case we'd simply start another regimen of isotretinoin, because it is possible for it to return in a mild form. I suppose I can live with that. Although the new acne is gone, I still have the visual remains of a decades long war on my face. I see fading hyperpigmentation and a very few scars along my right jawline. My scars are nothing compared to the discoloration. They are not even noticeable. If you looked really close you may see two or three. Of course, I've never seen my face completely acne free since I was 11 years old, so I may find more as time goes on.

Over all, I am happy!

Judgement Day!

As the end of the world draws near (only two hours remain), I am left with a few parting words for those of you who will be raptured: GET REAL!

History is full of people calling for the "Lord's return" for over 2,000 years. God almighty!

Accutane & Acne (Days 77-93)

With the exception of two zits, I am pretty much acne free at the moment. I still suffer from the discoloration of previous outbreaks, but my dermatologist insists that it will all fade away once I stop taking the isotretinoin. I will trust her on that.

Thursday, marked another visit to the dermatologist. She said that she thinks next month will be my last prescription for isotretinoin. I will continue to take it for several months to come, because I have been taking one pill per day while the prescription says twice a day. Also, that is doctor's orders. She says that it doesn't matter how quickly you receive the dose as long as you do complete the regimen. My lab work shows normal liver function and my triglycerides are holding steady in the mid-200s. She said I can live with that, because more than likely they will drop once I stop taking the isotretinoin.

I picked up a new prescription of Amnesteem and Prednisone today at the pharmacy. I had to convince the pharm tech that I did have a prescription for Prednisone on my script, because she said it looked like the doctor had drawn a line through the quantity, which was 30. I read the script to her over the phone to convince her that the doctor wanted me to take it. I also told her to look at my prescription history to see she does prescribe the medication with the same quantity and instructions. My dermatologist loves to draw lines over things and circle things to make a point. In the case of the marked out quantity, I think she was attempting to emphasis for the pharmacy that there was a prescription at the end of the prescription paper.

Osama bin Laden dead

Osama bin Laden, after a nine year manhunt since the anniversary of 9/11, is dead.

Accutane & Acne (Days 66-76)

I am still plugging along. It seems that my acne is now wanting to play hide-and-seek with me. For a few days it is on my cheek and then it is suddenly on my forehead. I'm still taking Prednisone as a stop-gap measure. I have also moved the time I take my isotretinoin from the morning to the afternoon/evening. It is easier on my stomach, because I am able to eat a decent snack/meal before swallowing the pill. I have fudged a little bit on the number of pills I take each day. Most days I take one, but on others I may take 2.

Official Birth Certificate of Barack Obama

Now, Donald Trump can hush about it!

Accutane & Acne (Days 52-65)

Better ways.

Since my last post, my skin has gotten better. The previous outbreaks have went down, leaving only discoloration behind to remind of its former presence. I went to the dermatologist for another month's follow-up on Thursday. My triglycerides were up a few points, but she said wasn't anything to get alarmed about. (I have cut back on red meats.) I did tell her that I was disappointed with the fact parts of my face were breaking out again, but she reassured me that it was common. Of course, I will continue the treatment. I did mention that I did not have Prednisone to take during the previous month, which did help tremendously with inflammation from the occasional outbreaks. She went ahead and gave me another supply of Prednisone 10mg to take each day. The doctor also gave me samples of Tazorac to spot treat any future outbreaks. I hadn't tried this product in my pre-isotretinoin days, but I like it. It has a drying effect on my skin. The cysts also responded with a decrease in swelling.

The pharmacy filled my isotretinoin prescription with another company's brand. It is Claravis by Barr Labs. I prefer Barr's packaging. It is much more user friendly than Mylan's packaging for Amnesteem. Of course, it still costs my insurer more than $600 for a month's therapy!

America's Middle East

With the burning of a Qu'ran by a Florida church, America is now faced with its own outrage at the hands of the Afghans.

Last year, the church in Gainesville, Florida, was set to host the "International Burn a Quran Day" on 9/11. Instead, Terry Jones, who is the church's pastor (cult leader), decided to postpone the hateful act after much domestic and international pressure. The event was resurrected (I can't help myself), in the form of the "International Judge the Koran Day." This event took place recently.

Sufficed-to-say, Muslims did not take kindly to the video burning of a single Qu'ran on the church's website. Now, I am not a religious fanatic. Actually, I am not religious at all. But you know what you get when you pit two groups of ignorant people against each other. That's right, people get hurt, and some even die, which is the case in Afghanistan.

Even though the act showed poor taste and utter ignorance, I am a firm believer in First Amendment rights. I believe every American has the right to protest and support his/her beliefs in a non-violent way. Although, I believe you may burn any book you wish, the fact remains that the people who participated in this act of protest understood the ramifications of their act. It wasn't simply speaking out against a governmental policy, but a slap-in-the-face of over a billion people, who are easily pissed off when it comes to their faith.

Now, the American government and military must bear the burden of the burning of a single Qu'ran. Americans and Afghans have died in what has become a cauldron of hate and retaliation in Afghanistan. As someone who teaches American National Government, I am puzzled by what should be the outcome of what has happened. I teach my students that their rights end where another individual's rights begin. (I often cite Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes' opinion, in re: Schenck v. United States, of the figurative man shouting "fire" in a crowded theater, as a caveat.) As such, I believe the people who knowingly participated in this act should be expatriated to Afghanistan. Sometimes you must freely sacrifice a lamb to the wolf in order to save your flock. How's that for atonement?

Accutane & Acne (Days 30-51)

Old ways.

That's the only way I can describe the right side of my face. While the left side of my face has cleared up considerably, the right side of my face is intent on returning to the ways of an acne-indulged lifestyle. With that said, I have to admit that the acne is not the same cystic nor nodule acne as I had before, but it is there nonetheless, doggonnit!

My skin is very dry. I rub my fingers over my cheeks and feel the dryness of my skin. Some skin even wafts off like dust into a gentle breeze. (How's poetic is that?) I do not wash my face at night anymore, in fear of aggravating its dryness. I was using CeraVe, but now I am using Cetaphil, because I had some of it left over.

Also, the eczema/dermatitis on the back of my hands has become quite painful and obvious. The back of my hands look like lobster claws sometimes. My left hand looks like a massive red island in a white sea, while my right hand looks like an archipelago of red dots strewn in the whiteness. They are incredibly dry, as well. I am using a homemade concoction of Cetaphil moisturizer of triamcinolone acetonide that I have mixed together. I only started using it last night and my skin is less red.

The only major difference in all of this is the fact I am not taking Prednisone anymore. I only had it for one month to go along with the Accutane. I am not sure if the dermatologist forgot to prescribe it last time or she doesn't want me to take it anymore. Nevertheless, I will be requesting a refill of it the next time I am there in about a week-and-a-half. I think it went a long way in helping me combat acne flare-ups.

Japan

On Friday, Japan was devastated by an earthquake that registered at 8.9-9.1 on the Richter Scale. In fact, it is the largest earthquake in Japan's recorded history. The earthquake created a tsunami wave that was thirty feet high and swept six miles inland. The tsunami traveled as far as California and Australia. Entire cities and towns, in Japan, were wiped from the face of the earth. Japanese authorities state that more than 9,000 people are missing.

The earthquake was so powerful that it shifted Japan's largest island, Honshu, by more than eight feet. It also increased the earth's rotation by 1.6 microseconds, and increased the planet's tilt on its axis by four inches! That is some serious energy release!

Libya

Libyan leader, Muammar Ghaddafi, is still pounding rebel strongholds throughout the eastern region of his country. France became the first country to recognize Libya's transitional government as its legitimate government. The world is still working on what sanctions to impose on Ghaddafi. It would seem that he is turning the tide on this weeks' old rebellion. Ghadaffi is using his seemingly superior firepower, and trained soldiers, to deter rebel forces and reclaim lost territory.

Accutane & Acne (Days 24-29)

Thursday, I went in for my one month check-up with my dermatologist. My triglycerides were a little high (she said), but I think I can live with 237, even if 150 is normal. She said that it would probably be okay and she didn't have a real problem with it being at the number, but she wouldn't like it to get closer to 300 anytime soon. (But, in the meantime, I'm supposed to be cutting down on my cholesterol intake. Uh-huh!)

My face is continuing to progress. The doctor was very pleased with my result. She said that it won't be long before I am acne-free. I told her that I probably hadn't been acne-free in over 18 years. I wish someone had told me about Accutane about 18 years ago!

In other news, I went the pharmacy today to fill my new prescription for isotretinoin, but the pharmacy guy told me that the iPledge people wouldn't allow it to be filled. He really didn't know why, even though, he said he called them. He thought maybe I am too old to be taking it. I called the iPledge people, and the lady I talked to, who was very nice about it, told me that the prescription wasn't filled through any fault of mine, but because my dermatologist hadn't verified that I had went in for my follow-up office visit this month. She said it was incredibly rude for the pharmacy guy (who I think is a technician) to tell me that, because there isn't an age limit on who can take isotretinoin. That's exactly what I thought. If you think about it, if there were an age limit, why would the doctor put me on a regimen that will last for months, when she knew exactly how old I am?

I will call the doctor's office on Monday, and tell them to go ahead and take care of this issue.

Libya No Fly Zone

The United States is pushing for a No Fly Zone over Libya. Permanent Members of the United Nations Security Council, such as China, France, and Russia, are not as keen on this idea.

I think that the United States is moving much too quickly on this No Fly Zone idea. We are too invested in Afghanistan and Iraq (yes) to move unilaterally on a Libya No Fly Zone. The United States needs the backing of the Security Council to make any No Fly Zone successful.

This problem will be solved through diplomacy not strong-armed, George W. Bush tactics.

Accutane & Acne (Days 17-23)

My face is flaking skin, like after a sunburn. My lips were cracking quite a bit on Friday and yesterday, but they seem to be healing today. They are not painful this morning, but they are peeling. I have been using Aquaphor and Blistex like mad!

I go back to the dermatologist on Thursday to see how things are going. I think my dermy will be happy with the results. I am! The only thing I am worried about is the blood test I had done on Wednesday to test my lipids level. The last time my LDL was up! Yikes.

Happy Birthday

Today marks another year of life for me. It's hard to believe that I am turning 26 again! I haven't got any plans really. It will be marked like most other days with work. I'm happy to have the opportunity to work and contribute to society. I'm attempting to stay positive, because I am one year closer to the Grim Reaper.

Talk News Shows

Why do people call into news broadcasts and think they can talk for as long as they want? It always amuses me!

Libya

After revolutions in Tunisia and Egypt, Libya has turned out to be a much more bloody revolt against the government of Colonel Muammar Ghadaffi, who has held power for 42 years.

This northern African country, that was once a colony of Italy, has been in upheaval for almost two weeks. With the fall of Benghazi, Libya's second largest city, to anti-Ghadaffi forces, the future of Ghadaffi and his hold on the some of Africa's largest oil reserves, seems rather precarious. Rebel forces are waging an assault on Tripoli, which is Libya's capital. Ghadaffi is stating that the revolution is the result of al-Qaeda and other international forces. He has called in armed mercenaries to help maintain his hold on the government.

Many of Ghadaffi's major political supporters have defected and now support the revolution. In addition, military forces are also reversing their support of Ghaddafi and supporting the rebels.

Some see civil war on the horizon, as the United Nations imposes financial sanctions against Ghadaffi's regime.

Muammar Ghadaffi's days are numbered.

Accutane & Acne (Days 12-16)

Starting my third full week of treatment, I am still seeing results, even though they are a bit slow. Acne is still rearing its ugly head, but it is much less intense. It is not painful, nor does it create hyperpigmentation. It seems that the hyperpigmentation that did exist has begun to lighten. My face is less red and irritated, which is always a good thing!

Accutane & Acne (Days 7-11)

It's hard to believe it has been more than ten days since I started taking isotretinoin for my acne. Now on day eleven, I am still chugging along with many of the same symptoms I discussed in my previous blog.

I am still experiencing acne; although, in a milder form. I have developed acne on my lower and upper lips, but it isn't too bad. I didn't have acne there before. The areas that were formerly inhabited by cystic acne are still in retreat with no sign of return. I just wish the hyperpigmentation would fade more quickly, though.

In other news, I took two pills on Friday. I thought I would see how I reacted. I did not notice any difference in physical side-effects to the 80mg of isotretinoin. I debated on whether or not to take a double dose tonight, but I decided not to do it, since I am feeling a bit sickly. Maybe tomorrow.

Accutane & Acne (Days 4, 5 & 6)

I am still marching forward in my combat against acne! I have taken almost seven doses of isotretinoin, since last Friday.

Over these three days, I have experienced what I consider to be typical side-effects from this drug. I have noticed my face has a reddish color to it (like when you're in the sun for 10 minutes in noon sun during summer), my shoulders and upper arms feel achy and weak, and tiredness (but that could just be work).

On day 3, I was excited because I woke up with any new acne. During these last three days, however, I have broken out slightly. On the bright side, though, this acne reminds me of those small little pimples I used to get. I haven't experienced anything remotely like the cystic acne of recent months.

It's still a good thing. After my fourteenth dose--or so--I am thinking about trying a double dose day.

Baby steps!

Accutane & Acne (Day 3)

Today marks the third dose of isotretinoin I have taken. It is still in the early days, but I am starting to get into it. Again, I am seeing results this early from taking the medication.

• I woke after a few hours of sleep and felt restless for a while, but went back to sleep. I did not experience any anxiety, like last night, though.
• I woke up with another mild headache.
• This morning I noticed that my face is not as oily as it usually is.
• It's too weird to explain, but my face smells different (take my word on it, I know).
• The taste that was in my mouth on days 1 & 2 has become almost non-existent.
• My hands and feet no longer have the bruised feeling, but I do still feel some muscle rigidity and discomfort; however, it has become less annoying and noticeable.
• My lips have begun to flake slightly.
• And for the first time in a very long time, I woke up with NO NEW outbreaks on my face! YES!!

Accutane and Acne (Days 1 & 2)

Yesterday, I received my first prescription of Amnesteem (isotretinoin), which I will refer to as isotretinoin or Accutane, because that is how I know it best. Isotretinoin is a treatment for severe acne. Over the last 4-6 months, I have developed eruptions of antibiotic-resistant cystic acne along my jawline and forehead, that any teenager would be proud to call his/her own; however, I haven't been a teenager in over 12 years.

First of all, I had to sign a document, called iPledge, stating that I understand there are copious amounts of risks involved in this systemic treatment. I can have anything from a stroke to a child born with severe mental and/or physical deformities (more on that later), even though, I am a guy. In addition, I am to be subjected to monthly lab work to measure my cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

This particular brand of isotretinoin comes in a cute little pack of ten pills with a silhouette of a pregnant woman and a big red circle with a slash through it on the back of each individual pill container. It includes a warning, in case the picture was too ambiguous, that states in bright red, capital type: "WARNING TO FEMALE PATIENTS: DO NOT GET PREGNANT." That is really charming to say the least. Of course, the effects to an unborn child are anything but cute. In a side note, my mother was looking at the packaging, which shows crude graphics of what can happen to an unborn child if the mother takes isotretinoin during her pregnancy. Mom thought those were things that could happen to my head and organs while taking the medicine. I had to laugh out loud over that. I'm a bit bigger than a zygote.

Five p.m. yesterday marks the anniversary of my first dose of 40mg. Since I am not a teenager, I am starting out by taking one pill a day, instead of the usual two pills per day.

So, what have I experienced thus far?

Day 1

1. In mere hours after my first dose, I noticed a curious taste in my mouth. I can't describe it really, other than to say it is a combination of bitter, sweet, and sour. It is like my taste buds are tasting things that aren't present. It got better as the I got closer to my next dose. I haven't really noticed it interfering with how I taste my food as I eat. It is just poignantly present between meals.
2. During the night, I was subjected to a period of intense fear and paranoia. I woke up feeling like I was being crushed by the world and that maybe my acne wasn't so bad. Perhaps, that was me in a semi-sleeping state of delusion.
3. I had some wildly vivid dreams that I do not care to share, after I settled down from my state of panic.

Day 2

This morning, call me a liar if you must, I noticed that many of the cysts on my face had shrunk and were no longer painful to touch. It is as if the swelling has reduced. Of course, the hyperpigmentation is still obvious, but hopefully that will fade, too. If not, thank the gods for concealer.

I took my second dose of isotretinoin around noon today, in an attempt to get it into my breakfast/lunch schedule. (It is best taken with food.)

1. I woke up with a nagging headache, which is unusual for me.
2. As the day has gone on, I have noticed that my muscles feel a bit more stiff. The palms of my hands and the soles of my feet feel bruised and are slightly sensitive to touch. Of course, they look perfectly normal to the naked eye.
3. I have noticed my sinuses, via my nose, are starting to feel dry and irritated.

Hopefully, I can continue the treatment. My dermatologist told me to experiment with how often I take the pills, not to exceed two a day. She recommended that I may take one a day, skip a day or two, and eventually try two per day, once I feel more confident. Of course, I need to see what the long-term side-effects of this treatment may be.

Hosni Mubarak & Egypt

In a follow-up to an earlier post today, it had been announced--through an unofficial capacity--that President Hosni Mubarak would resign his position in a nationally televised address. Instead, he offered six amendments to the constitution of Egypt.

He further stated that he would remain the country's president until September, when a new election can be conducted, in which a new president will be elected by the people. I admire him for such courage. The people of Egypt have lived with him for over thirty years. Why can't they stand him for six more months? (He states that he has served Egypt for over sixty years, both as a soldier and politician.)

I think Egyptians believed President Mubarak would flee for his life, like the former president of Tunisia did in earlier weeks. There is no blueprint for such sweeping change. Now, the people will look to the Egyptian military to see where it stands.

Egypt

In its third week of open revolt, the press is speculating that President Hosni Mubarak will resign as president of Egypt at any moment.

The protesters, who have been in Egypt's Tahrir Square for the duration, have seemingly broken the will of the 30-year-old, pro-Western regime. They want reform and freedom. Those are all noble sentiments, but we have found that those sentiments do not play well in the Middle East. (I didn't write their story.) Let's think of Iraq and Afghanistan; even though, those are cases of forced democratic reforms, I concede.

On this auspicious occasion, I am reminded of a line from the movie, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Willy Wonka tells Charlie, "Don't forget what happened to the man who suddenly got everything he always wanted." In the case of Egypt, instead of living happily ever after, it may have to make do with Islamic sharia law and an Ayatollah.

Good luck Egypt!

Republican House

I thought the past was the past. I was wrong, so it would seem. Republicans in the House of Representative want to rehash the past by attempting to overturn what they have to endearingly called "Obamacare."

Do Republicans really think they have a chance? Sure, they have the majority in the House, but they don't have a prayer in the Democratic-controlled Senate, nor with the President.

So why waste time?