Ginormous Dragonfly

During the summer we have some very large dragonflies that fly over our yard at rooftop level.  We've never gotten a good look at one. 

Until this week.

I found this handsome devil perched near the ground.  He's about 4 inches long.  [That's ginormous for modern dragonflies, there is a size limit based at least in part on the oxygen concentration of the air - modern air has less oxygen than prehistoric monsters with wingspans over 2 feet].

I'm not sure of the ID on this guy.  I'm still looking.  Any ideas?

Foundation Plantings Problems... or WWTT?

I've found choosing foundation plantings to be a bit... problematic.  When I look around I see several common themes.  One of which is plants that are too big for the spot.

Think these foundation plants got a bit out of control?

Um... No

Found at an LGC a few weeks back.  The container says "Nature's Classics"

The plant? 

Not exactly something nature designed...

Any advice for Smuggling?

Last year in Panama I saw a purple blooming Anthurium.  I wanted it.  I thought about plucking off a leaf and smuggling it back into the US.  

Then I thought - don't be silly.  This is the age of the internet.  You can find anything.

Wrong.

Well, partly.

I can find purple Anthuriums for sale.  From Hawaii.  Including shipping that costs, like, triple digits.  More than I usually spend on a single plant.

So I kept looking.  And looking.  And looking.

Finally found one -see?!

Unfortunately this one was for sale (for a reasonable price) at KEW GARDENS IN ENGLAND. 

Thought about buying it (couldn't steal a leaf to root, too many witnesses) and trying to smuggle it back to the US.  The Husband thought that was a bad idea.

Spoilsport.

He also said he wouldn't bail me out if I got caught.

So I continue to live without a purple Anthurium.

I has a sad.

[Did I hear a someone say there's an Orange one?]