This summer, I am honored to be teaching first year students in MSU’s overseas Master of Arts in Educational Technology (MAET) program. Held in Galway, Ireland, the program offers students the opportunity to tinker and play, remix and repurpose, and develop a mindful approach to technology integration on the campus of the National University of Ireland (NUI) – Galway.
I have another incredible journey this summer, too. I’m an invited delegate to the Starmus Festival in Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain), a celebration of astronomy, music, and culture featuring some of the greatest minds in science and art. But more on that later…
It was a long couple of days in cars, planes, and buses, but we eventually made it from Toledo, Ohio to Galway, Ireland (by way of Detroit, Atlanta, and Dublin) and were thrilled to reach our first destination: Cappa Veagh B&B. Brandon and I stayed here almost exactly 11 years ago on our honeymoon, and it was still as lovely as we remembered it (but now with wi-fi)!
After enjoying a hearty cup of soup at The Oslo Bar (which carries Michigan-brewed Founders beer, we were excited to note) and exploring the Salthill area, we indulged with #NerdDessert at The Creamery (homemade Irish scones and ice cream). All delicious, and despite the jet lag, a wonderful day.
Of course, the breakfast part of a bed & breakfast in Ireland is not to be overlooked — and once again Cappa Veagh did not disappoint. One of my favorite Irish foods is brown soda bread…and Catherine’s is the best. After a fascinating discussion with Pat about his military service in Croatia and an update on the #Brexit situation, Catherine gave us a generous parting gift of her homemade orange marmalade.
Then it was onward to Galway proper to meet up with teacher-scholar, mentor extraordinaire, and all-around superstar Leigh Graves Wolf and a few hours later, my talented fellow instructors Chris Sloan, Aman Yadav, and Emily Bouck. We enjoyed a drink at The Salt House followed by unique and tastefully-prepared grub at the Bierhaus (my grilled cheese had quite the kick to it and the apple slaw was fantastic)!
Now for the next phase of the journey (Tenerife!) for the Starmus Festival!