thanks. I had to lower the water just a tad bit to allow drainage from the soil. That's the whol point of using the clay pebbles under the soil. It still looks great and there is still plenty of water for the pond.
John, I actually ordered everything online. I ordered it just because I didn't think AC carried everything I needed. But, I noticed AC does carry the hydroballs, coco bedding, and mopani wood, etc. They even have a nicer tree background than what I got and I think it's only a few dollars more. I do really like the plants and accessories that came with the kit I ordered though.
It's up to you, just search blackjungle.com and see what all you need then check around.
I've got almost a full bucket of the coco bedding. I wasn't thinkin' and through the whole brick in the bucket of water and it was enough for a 30 gallon tank. But that's less than $5 though so no big deal on that.
Steve