For recommendations on evergreen azaleas in Massachusetts visit the Mass Chapter recommendations at the link below. Then on the same site, click on Plant Data - Azaleas for information on the color, height, etc. Here is a link that might be useful: Proven Perforemers in Mass.

"But the only effective way to get rid of them is systemic pesticide like Bayer Advanced "Fruit, Citrus and Vegetable Insect Control" Prairie This isn't judgement, this is pointing out that this statement is simply not true. This is a judgement - Shame on you. Aphids are one of the easiest pests to control, albeit annoying little buggers, but by no means a justification for stating Imidacloprid is the only effective measure to control - that's a flat out lie. I know this isn't an organic forum and I realize that one plant is a drop in the bucket compared to the fields and nurseries covered in it, but the more people you inform on better alternatives to harsh chemical means - especially the new comers - then fewer people waste money on and spread these problem compounds around. More information than you probably wanted or ever thought about on the effect of different exposure levels to the primary active ingredient in your so called aphid panacea. "Imidacloprid and its nitrosoimine metabolite (WAK 3839) have been well studied in rats, mice and dogs. In mammals, the primary effects following acute high-dose oral exposure to imidacloprid are mortality, transient cholinergic effects (dizziness, apathy, locomotor effects, labored breathing) and transient growth retardation. Exposure to high doses may be associated with degenerative changes in the testes, thymus, bone marrow and pancreas. Cardiovascular and hematological effects have also been observed at higher doses. The primary effects of longer term, lower-dose exposure to imidacloprid are on the liver, thyroid, and body weight (reduction). Low- to mid-dose oral exposures have been associated with reproductive toxicity, developmental retardation and neurobehavioral deficits in rats and rabbits. Imidacloprid is neither carcinogenic in laboratory animals nor mutagenic in standard laboratory assays.[41] No studies have been published involving human subjects chronically exposed to imidacloprid. Effects of imidacloprid on human health and the environment depend on how much imidacloprid is present and the length and frequency of exposure. Effects also depend on the health of a person and/or certain environmental factors.[42] A study conducted in rats suggests that the neonicotinoids may adversely affect human health, especially the developing brain.[43]" Next time, use an alternative method and exercise a little patience. I'd rather spend the extra time with my plants and in the garden. Furthermore, quit feeding the new gardeners false information just because your either too impatient or not committed enough to see the results of even something as simple as soap spray. Sorry I'm not sorry.

I love my spiny lizards! Just today I watched one out on the patio. He'd scamper a foot, and stop. Look at me and do a few push ups--then scamper another foot, stop. Look at me and do a few push ups. It was funny! Why do they do those push ups? It looks like they're breathing hard when they do them too. Roselee, I looked at your pictures and thought, hmmm does she really let a gila monster live on her front porch?? (That's what I thought it was) Here is a link that might be useful: gila monster

So are your friends expecting to get this plant back from you? Or are you going to keep, since they are moving back to the States, but not nearby? First of all, do not feel guilt. This poor violet needed some help long before you came to have it in your care. It is overgrown with at least one sucker, has a neck that shows its been ages since its been repotted - and worst of all, it's in a self-watering pot. If you were to search this forum for that term, you'd find lots of advice about them - all against. They are the death of more African Violets...well, it was not your choice and you had no idea. Can you revive the whole plant without taking some drastic measures? I would say not. The one side of the plant is done for. The other side is quickly going the same way - and more than likely the roots are rotted. So. Now what to do? From your photos, it appears that the one side has a crown in pretty good shape and I think you should focus your attention on saving that while you can. Here is a link to a tutorial by Joyce Stork that will give you the information you need to restart that crown. Please watch it and come back with your questions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KE0_d_E6NMk   You'll need some supplies, like potting mix and perlite and a plastic pot...probably something no larger than 3 inches across. You can even use recycled containers (yogurt?) if you punch holes in the bottom for drainage. And as to a place in your home where it should be kept - an east window is great, but other exposures can work, too and since you say you don't get any direct sun I won't caution about putting it in a south facing window since you won't need to worry about too much sun. You don't say where in the country you are, so I don't know how cold that windowsill (or that bathroom) might be but AV's like to be warm and comfortable - just like you do. If it feels cold there to you, the plant will be cold as well. You can even put this plant under artificial light as it shows in the video; a lamp with a compact florescent bulb would work great over it, but you can't keep it where it is going to be cold or dark. Sorry if this doesn't sound like an easy answer to your problem. You can most likely save a part of this plant, but you need to do some research here and read about re-potting and basic care if you're going to be successful. What you say you know about AV's (not watering from above) is not true either, so you have a lot to learn about them. You can do this, though! Please do ask more questions - we all want your (or your friends'?) plant to survive.