Bro... Armonia drop could mean Nitrite is at its peak, which is equally harmful to fishes. You have been doing well so far, don't let the impatience spoil everything. Just my 2 cents.
Hahaha... I think the only salt she'll be touching are those used for cooking... heh.
My mom is the number one dis-courager of fish keeping (even fresh water!)... that's why I keep my tank in the office.
I'm assuming that the green basket in your display contains cheato? Heh... I have the exact basket for this purpose. Your scaping looks a little flimsy though... you might want sturdier rocks at the bottom for a stronger foundation. I like your DIY FR. If it works, you might wanna consider getting those tupperware bottles for a sturdier body. Keep us updated on your progress!
I use a JBJ ATO as well, and I do agree its simple to use. I wish to have more float switches that could work with the set though, to provide an extra level of disaster preventive measure.
Heh... my tank is jam packed now. My corals need more room... upgrades are coming along, slowly but surely. I need to learn to take better pics so I can update more.
Well... I guess its a little risky. Its easier to manage with an auto top-off device since you deal with a pump and electrical stuff, plus ways to cut off the pump if the top up tank is empty, etc. Cost vs risk issue.