APO = Christmas

The end of sunset in Alice from Anzac Hill.

Off in the distance, to the right, there was a lot of smoke from a brush fire.

We get our mail sent and delivered through an APO (military post office), which is awesome because it's just like using the mail in the U.S. with U.S. postage. I love when I check our box and we have a slip that says we have a package - just like Christmas! Today we got THREE boxes and a Halloween card from my friend Pam! It was a very good day.

My parents sent us some reusable plasticware that we can use when eating outside (thanks mom and dad!). And my friend Darlene sent us a bunch of Halloween candy and a cute box to hold it in (thank you Dar!). Halloween is apparently a big deal here and we've  been told to expect a lot of trick or treaters in our neighborhood. Not traditionally celebrated here, but something fun the Americans have brought to town and the Aussies have embraced. What little kid doesn't like getting candy?

The big news in Alice this week is the Masters Games. The Masters Games take place every other year, bringing thousands of people to our little town. The Games are for those who are 35 and over and involve everything from darts to cricket to lawn bowling to shooting to archery and lots more. The Games last more than a week with sporting events taking place every day throughout the town. When Greg was here 8 years ago, his team came in third in volleyball! Out of three teams. But still - he got a medal! Maybe we'll participate when it comes back around in 2014.

Opening Ceremonies for the 2012 Masters Games.

LOML (Love of my Life)

The Opening Ceremony on Saturday evening began with a parade of participants followed by fireworks and live music. Very fun! Here are some of this year's players, led by the Alice Springs Marching Band:

Alice Springs Marching Band.

Alice Springs Marching Band.

Aussie men wear short shorts!

Here is a great viewpoint from the top of Anzac Hill to see how many people were at the Opening Ceremony: