Esperance, Cape Le Grand, and Isla's Birthday

A forecast for impending poor weather for the South West made us decide to spend a few extra days in Esperance. We have a nice sheltered site here, and there are lots of other kids around to help ours pass the time during wet days. Fortunately we made it out to Cape Le Grand (national park 50km east of Esperance), while the weather was still fine. Lisa and I remember it as being beautiful, but found that it was even more impressive than expected. Amazingly clear turquoise water, white soft sand, bordered by a rocky landscape. We did a bit of a walk and ended up at a secluded bay (Little Hellfire) where we did some rock hopping (Maia gave us a fright when she slipped into the water). Back to Hellfire Bay for a swim and a body surf in clean waves. Home to bed exhausted.
The poor weather finally arrived, and we have had heavy rain for a couple of days. The rain didn't dampen the fun on Isla's birthday however. We started the day with presents and pancakes. Isla got some new clothes (see photos below), a real shark tooth necklace, and a wetsuit. This was followed by a swim in the rain, baking a chocolate mud cake with Lisa, and a little afternoon party with caravan park friends. This was topped off with Isla's choice of dinner - a pub meal. What a great day.
While the parents are a bit frazzled, the kids have had a great time despite the incessant rain. They've scootered and ridden bikes with new found friends, while Pia has just killed time by playing in puddles. Fortunately the rain has now stopped, and we have tidied up before packing up to find a new destination. Probably on towards Albany, with a detour to Wave Rock.
Photos below are taken at Cape Le Grand National Park (beach fun and a Goanna joining us for lunch), presents in the camper on Isla's birthday, Isla wearing her birthday presents, birthday celebrations, and Pia enjoying the puddles.