Cincinnati!!!

A couple weekends ago we spent some time in Cincinnati with our friends, Geoff, Amy, and the McKim family. Mac had a tour with his youth orchestra so we took the opportunity to go along for some fun. Mac was on his own with his tour group and Keith, Ethan and I stayed at Geoff's parents' lovely home in Ft. Thomas.

When we arrived on Saturday,  all the boys (and Tess) went to the St. Patrick's Day parade downtown, while the ladies went to tea.

 The kids had a great time at the parade, and it turned out to be a beautiful day to spend outside. It was a little windy, however, so Ethan and Grayson had fun testing their weight against the wind.

While the boys were playing downtown, the ladies enjoyed a lovely afternoon of tea, savories, and pastries at Orchids at Palm Court. Orchids is located inside the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza. The hotel was built in 1931 and is a registered National Landmark. It is a beautiful example of French Art Deco architecture.

The tea menu was exceptional as was the service. I was so impressed by variety of food we were served, especially the pastries. All the sandwiches were delicious, my favorite was salmon with creme fresh.

 

The pastries were unbelievable! In addition to two types of scones, we were also served chocolate croissants. My two favorites on the dessert tray were the raspberry macaroons and the citrus - berry tarts. 

Saturday was also our wedding anniversary so Keith and I decided to join Mac's orchestra tour group, and enjoy the evening at Music Hall with a concert from the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

On Sunday morning we all took a walk across the Purple People Bridge before heading out to Mac's concert in Mason. The day was chilly and overcast but we still enjoyed our time together. The Ohio River water level was very high and some streets along side it were flooded.

We ended the weekend with MAYO's Musical Legends Tour and enjoyed pieces from Ravel's Mother Goose Suite, and Bizet's Carmen.  It was a very fun-filled weekend thanks to Karen and Bill for their kind hospitality, and all of the McKim family for spending the weekend with us and showing us around town!