Just Another Day on the Set

We've filmed the video for the next two instructional videos, on administration of the Rorschach and the MMPI. The students id a great job again, and we were able to get through the shooting for both videos in a little over a couple of hours. The only glitch was static emanating from one of the microphones for a while. It was never pinpointed, but changing the mic got rid of the problem. I've already done most of the prep work for graphics and design. I will record voiceovers, and then the whole thing will be pt together. A lot of preparation goes into this, but I'm getting the hang of it.

Elvis, Elvis, and More Elvis

I took a break from grading and head out to the Michigan Elvis Festival. Held right here in Yspilanti, it's a tribute venue to the King. They include some other impersonators too, such as a Beatles group, Roy Orbison impersonator and a Tom Jones act. There are about as many variations on Elvis as one would see with Jesus (check out the book American Jesus: How the son of God became a National Icon by Stephen Prothro. The book shows the incredible variety of Jesus depictions and uses in american culture).

The guys are pretty talented, and they take it all in good fun. Just as in Vegas, ladies are begging for Elvis scarves, so every Elvis comes loaded for bear with scarves. We had thunderstorms earlier in the day, but they cleared up by early afternoon when things got rolling. The organizers do a good job. As soon as one act departs the stage, another is waiting to come out. so there are o real lulls. I hadn't been before, and I had a eye-rolling reaction to it in the past. But it was actually a good time. The Elvii all had a pretty good sense of humor about what they do. The gang of Elvii came on stage together for a candlelight salute to Elvis.

Flowers A'Bloomin'

I took this picture this morning on my way to work. I like to take my camera with me. The digital photo revolution is great. Just point and shoot and no worry about developing the film. I planted this last year, and it has come back. It begins as a bright yellow flower and stays that way for a couple of weeks. Then it transforms into this beauty. Some of its neighbors are coming up soon.

Hanging out...literally

Over at Jerry & Karen's today for a B-cue in the great weather of the weekend. This July 4th weekend might have been the best weather-wise that I can remember. Fri thru Sun were gorgeous days, with clear skies and not too hot. These were fantastic days to hang out outside and some of us did just that in the Sky Chairs that Jerry & Karen have. You can gently sway with your feet up, and they make for easy napping too. A lot of folks from UDM were there.

Unusual Precautions

The retreat facility has a separate, small chapel on the premises. It is a picturesque church that has become quite a popular site for weddings. The sign says it all. Although we saw deer from time to time and the assorted birds, we did not run into any bears. The week before 2 cubs were spotted behind the retreat center.

Inkblot Shirts

I created a Cafepress site and put up some inkblot T-shirts/Sweatshirts for fun. I might get around to making some more, but will see how this goes. Barry's Blots will be up for a bit. Above are some of the choices.

A Great Trip to Colorado

The Magis National Faculty Retreat was a true retreat. Little in the way of pressure and much time for reflection, hiking and reading. I finished a couple of books during the retreat, including Wilma Bucci's Psychoanalysis and Cognitive Science. The faculty from across the country were quite interesting and the group worked very well together. I'll put up some pictures from time to time of the great scenery in the Rockies.