We spend one night in Coober Pedy on this leg of the trip. We decide to drive to Port Augusta and spend 2 nights so we will be somewhere for Williams birthday tomorrow.

We leave Coober Pedy around 9 am and continue our journey south. We can see for miles on either side as there are few trees. The wildflowers are starting to bloom and there is lots of yellow and pink on the sides of the road. Today there are lots of road trains. We see wild emus and giant lizards sunning themselves on the road, bit of a dangerous occupation!

We are lucky to get the last spa cabin in a campground. William has been asking to sleep in the tent, he prefers it to a cabin or motel. This is a complete turnaround from the boy who didn't like camping 11 weeks ago in Swan Hill!

So hard to believe my wee man is 5! The last time we were in Port Augusta the weather was not very good but today is a glorious day. We celebrate Williams birthday with a breakfast of pancakes and eggs we head to the Australian Arid Land Botanical Gardens. It's hot and there is no shade and plenty of flies. We check out the bush tucker garden, see the wildflowers that are coming out and spot a shingle back lizard before getting a bite at the cafe.

William and Mark spend the afternoon building Lego. Dinner is roast chicken followed by cake! William has a great day and declares it his best birthday ever!

Numerous baths are taken in the spa over the 2 days we stay. The kids have not had the opportunity for many baths on this trip!