Bloody oath it was. I had a ripper time.

In my 38-year working career, I have never felt so welcome and homey by any of my previous employers. So, a big thank you goes out to you, Craigels.

To you and your wife Tracey, daughter Gemma, and everyone else of my fabulous workmates.

Master baker and man in charge of the ground floor Kenny,

pie wizard James,

and cake crusader Jesse.

Just as important as a quality production is an efficient, friendly, and happy sales team.

Lilly our young hummingbird.

Andy our cheeky master organizer.

And Denise our Uber, who enjoys spending time with Doug, Douglas, and Dougy.

What do you think Craigels? What’s the Craig?

Some skepticism came up when I handed in my Curriculum Vitae, which reads like the Yellow Pages. A German? Living in a camper? Working and traveling for thirty years? How long will he stay?

What comes around goes around, my friend. And 14 months came around rather quickly. I know you appreciated my efforts as you have told me many times. I only did what you paid me for. I appreciate your trust and faith, not only at work but after hours as well. This is why.

The Tasty Bakehouse became my home in many ways. Maniyak, my rubber kayak, and all my kayaking and fishing gear found a dry place in the store room. As did my mountain bike on rainy days. The bakery was warm and dry on those wet days, perfect to cook dinner and watch Super Rugby. On some days, I spent more time in the production area to relax, than being at work. ‘You must have a good boss’ my friends said.

‘I have the best boss’ I replied.

You, and everyone, in fact, gave me the space and freedom to suit my life for work. My 08:00 am starting time was often delayed due to unforeseen events.

Like another sunrise and Maverick flying towards it. I tried to be on time (most times), but how can someone not enjoy this?

It’s not my fault that the pelicans look even more scurrilous on calm and sunny early mornings.

That one time, at band camp, I came in two hours late!

The pirates just left town. No one ever complained.

All of this was based on trust, honesty and mutual respect.

Respect isn’t given, it is earned.

This ‘good morning sunshine’ attitude is reflected onto my working hours with all my colleagues.

Yes, I did actually work as well. I did what I could, the best I could.

It’s pretty simple, just like the recipe for my absolute favorite wheat bread.

I believe these are the best ciabatta between Sydney and Brisbane. Show me better and prove me wrong if you can.

Long fermented doughs, fueled by a ‘poolish’. Dotted with chopped kalamata and green olives, chopped fresh rosemary intensifies its smell. Baked in a hot oven, crisp on the outside, and crunchy in the toaster. Best for soups. Or toasties.

Anyways, it was fun. And funtastic. We were all busy doing what we were doing, but we had fun. One spends so much time at work, why wouldn’t you want to enjoy that time. Or make the best of it. Yes, we all need income, but if that doesn’t make you happy, what are you saving for?

And to exactly those miserable and simply rude customers; This will not do here at the Taste Bakehouse. No matter how hungry or grumpy you are, keep your attitude to your friends.

We have Flour Power and we’re not afraid to use it.

But most customers are locals, and names and orders are known before they get to the counter. No sugar-decaf-soy milk-latté please. Well, like they say; Better latté than never’.

Taste Bakehouse will be even busier than ever. The Taste Bakehouse Eatery was opened recently in the same arcade, just across the bakery.

More scrumptious food is on offer, served by happy and friendly staff members.

And for those with little ones in tow, they can cook their wee hearts out in the mini kitchen. What a great idea.

The farewell party was bittersweet. Almost everyone came to a wee BBQ gathering. One busy mother had family duties and couldn’t make it. Shame. I was gonna say something cheeky here, but you are pretty cool. So is everyone else. I was overwhelmed that everyone made an effort.

The sausage sizzle was plentiful and cooked to perfection by the head of staff.

The kids were happy to go for a joyride. And there was of course a cake.

My favorite, chocolate. Oh, by the way, that’s not German on the cake.

I have no idea what was written, but I knew exactly what it meant. It meant ‘a lot’.

Why am I leaving? The grass surely isn’t greener on the other side. It is just about time to explore further than the horizon.

Africa to be exact. And this is what my life is all about. Adventures and exploring.