Thanks you guys it feels good that the tank is finally starting to shape up to the way I was picturing it in my head. It makes it that much better that this is my first try at a planted tank and its turning out so well (granted I know the plants in there are low light/hardy). You haven't gotten to see all the fun plant loss from having the very low light hood. :P Onward and upward as they say.
Limi310: odd coincidence... the "local" place I found was in Charlotte. Fintastic over off of 485@Tryon St. Man the saltwater section there is awesome (at least to a newb). I could totally see myself attempting a nano reef tank if I could convince my wife... and win the lottery. :O