Today's been a better day.

The news on the car front still isn't good, but things are progressing to take care of it for us. The Pajero and caravan need to be towed to Alice Springs, so the dealer can take a look at it. The tow truck will be here at the park at 7am tomorrow, to hook up the caravan, and take the lot... The tow truck company have been extraordinarily helpful, and gone well out of their way to fit in with our holiday plans. Certainly not what we expected, and not the sort of service we're used to back in civilisation. Meanwhile, NRMA Premium Care (absolutely essential if towing!!) have taken care of all the other arrangements including a hire car (Ford Territory) for a week, and any other costs associated with the breakdown, including accommodation, up to a total cost of $3000. We'll use all that and more, but the simple upgrade to Premium Care (which cost us $175), has just saved us $3000. (The towing quote to Alice is $2,700!!) Well worth it, huh? By the way, the dealer can't look at the car until Thursday, so we're in for a good visit at Alice Springs, and the itinerary needs reviewing...

So, having adopted a brighter outlook this morning, and determined not to let this completely ruin our holiday plans (just slightly damaged), we booked a helicopter flight over the big red car... sorry, I meant rock! This was fantastic, and we all loved it, except Jo, who had her eyes closed most of the way. Jeremy sat up front with the pilot, and the rest of us went in the back. The chopper had bubble windows fitted, which allowed you to put your head right outside, and look to the ground. (Jo thought it was fabulous, and took every opportunity to make the maximum use possible of these special bubble windows)... The rock is amazing, and I know it sounds hippie, but it's a deeply spiritual place, and you can't help but recognise that, no matter how skeptical or scientific you try to be. (Don't send messages, I know what you're thinking...)

After our flight, we hired a car, to get a closer look... And not just any car. We hired... wait for it... wait for it... a pajero!! Yes, that's right, we hired exactly the same car that broke down in the first place!!! How good is that? It's a sign... (that we're completely bloody bonkers and spent too much time in Coober Pedy!!) Couldn't believe our luck, so we took a photo to prove it... We then drove to the rock, and did a couple of base walks through some of the more significant sites, and a small climb up the base section. Didn't climb real far, as it's disrespectful... And we're all about teaching the kids respect for others... Aren't we... The way they've set up the cultural centre and visitors information is absolutely spectacular, and makes self guiding tours the way to go. Do it in your own way, at your own pace, and stop as often as you like. It's a great spot, and I know we'll definitely return here.

It's late..ish afternoon now, and the arrangements for tomorrow have all been made. The pressure has lifted a bit, that we'll be able to enjoy ourselves at dinner tonight. It's a buffet at the Outback Pioneer Hotel, which has been recommended by numerous people, and we're really looking forward to. They have kangaroo, camel, crocodile and buffalo, and Jeremy's keen to give everything a go. It should be a good night, and I'll give you a rundown and post pics, tomorrow...

So far, things are looking up, but I think, in a place like this, there's no way you can stay depressed or upset for long... It's a spiritual thing, you wouldn't understand...

Ciao peeps...