Happy 232nd, America.

*Wow, bad photo! 4th of July picnic in Yarra Bend Park

Yesterday, July 5, we went to an Americans Abroad 4th of July picnic. Technically, it was a Democrats Abroad party and doubled a little bit as a political rally. Many were even going home specifically for the November elections. I would have preferred a straight Americans abroad, but truthfully, was happy to hang around anyone who thinks peanut butter and jelly is good and normal (as opposed to vegemite and butter) and who thinks it is appropriate that pie have fruit in it (as opposed to meat).

Though this picnic is not something I would attend in the States (i.e. a party based on the fact that we are Americans, where I don't know anyone), it was comforting to know that there are others here having a similar experience to John and me. Everyone was really outgoing and full of useful tips. For instance, I now know where to get Oreos... not that I've been wanting Oreos, but it's good to know where I could get them if I did want them.

I made an apple pie and we got decked out in our red, white and blue. I hate to honk my own horn, but the other apple pie in attendance couldn't hold a candle. We got to the party, and as you can see from the photos, were pretty much the only ones in patriotic colors!


*Betty Crocker in the kitchen

Someone brought a proper football and we listened to Mariah Carey; after all, nothing says USA more than MC, right? We ate cheeseburgers and a few people had even brought the King of Beers, which is not sold in any pub, corner store or grocery. There were even some jokers in the crowd (from New York, of course) that asked it they needed to speak to us more slowly as we were from the South!

Also, we got word of a good Mexican restaurant in the area. This is great news. The availability of Mexican food is very low and what has been found has not been good. It's funny, but if you meet another American here, they don't want to discuss immigration, illegal hiring or the pros/cons of border control, but where to find a good enchilada. I am not joking, this comes up every time.


*John wowing the crowd with his red cap!

Overall, it was a really easy going afternoon. The weather was, for once, pleasant and the company was familiar. We've been loving our time here, but it was nice to feel included.