World domination

At long last, I finally got to play Risk last night.  I have been jonesing for a rousing, trash-talking game of Risk for months now.  Despite being sick, having to work early this morning and a pre-game trip to the grocery store for dice, I stuck it out until the bitter end.  I did not win, but was the last one standing against the winner (seen on the left strategizing intensely.)  I hope for it to become a monthly thing, but with people my age, it's hard to pin down anything regular.  

I was pink, and as you can see I made a run for North America (my favorite.)  At the beginning of the game I had forces in Australia, but was beat out by the winner, playing green.  How is it that almost EVERY time whoever gets Australia wins the overall game?  It's uncanny.  I feel like my mistake was turning in cards a little early, only getting 6 armies and taking over North America without enough backup to hold it.  I also made a risky (ha ha) run for someone's cards later in the game, succeeded, but stretched myself a bit thin.  Ah well, I still enjoyed myself immensely.  I'm glad I can lose but still have fun playing, despite what my parents may think about my gaming habits - people are able to change from age 10 to 24 you know.  I don't go cry behind the couch anymore.  I can't fit.