koffie, a lot of folks actually play A&A (right up to AAP40) right here on axisandallies.org. There is a “Play Boardgames” forum toward the bottom after you click “forums”.
You will need to download a small set of computer files (called ABattlemap) to use as a map with pieces on it.
Anyway, many of us A&A fans have the same problem you do. You’re lucky, because you have one friend who plays with you. I have zero. However, I play several games of AA50 at a time online using this site, with nice people from all over the world, who have varying levels of skill. Most of them are really good, because they’re dedicated enough to learn how to play A&A this way!
I didn’t explain it very well, but I just wanted to make sure you realize that you could play A&A to your heart’s content if you delve into this site a little bit. Also, there are plenty of people who frequent this site who would be happy to help you get to playing A&A this way.