update!
so, it's been a while since I updated this with pics, and since I had a question for you all, I thought I'd post a few of tonight's pictures...
since the last update, I have trimmed some of the growth on the island area, and let things take a really natural course otherwise. The sag has REALLY shown a ton of growth with no real work on my part. I've added a single Rasbora, which was the largest of the school in my 10 gallon, and was just way too bossy in there, who now seems buddy buddy with the 3 cherry barbs and 2 otos. I've also added a mystery snail and a few MTS... and added a cherry red shrimp to the 2 amanos who've been in here since day one.
I'm about to add a hydor theo 50w heater, which I got today... and am considering throwing a small water pump in as well to add some circulation, but I'm not sure it needs it.
I'd like your opinions on my co2 vs. excel delimma, but will post a new thread about it shortly.