Capsule Design Show, May 2008

Hawkeye served as the welcome wagon for the Miss table @ Capsule. He did pretty good for the first couple hours, until some big poodles started to invade his space. He got sent to work in the back room after that. I think he has a bit of a Napoleon complex.

Our orange zest oatmeal raisin cookies were a hit (and cheap lure) with customers. Never underestimate the power of a cookie to make someone walk towards you. This show was of particular importance because it marked my one year anniversary of launching Miss Natalie. Capsule SF was the very first show I did with my good friend Jocelyn (of Nous Savons), and man, oh man, have we come a long way since then. Thanks to all our new and old friends for the support and encouragement to start this wild adventure. Ok, end of my oscar speech, I swear.

Tea & Cake

One of the great perks of being a freelancer is scheduling "lunch" at my favorite bakery, Crixa Cakes, to celebrate the birthday of my talented and dear friend, Ben. Ben has introduced me to all manner of hidden spots in the East Bay, from the abandoned train station in West Oakland, to Mango Queendom dessert in Chinatown. Crixa Cakes, however, is on the top of my list.

Saffron buns the size of softballs in the display case.

Dark chocolate Bourbon Cake. Decadent beyond belief with frosting that defies gravity.

Pear and Rose Cream pie. Light and perfectly sweet. Reminds me of dessert at my grandmother's house, where all sweets were sprinkled with rose water.