Back in reefing after a long break

CharlotteReefer43 · Jul 9, 2023

Hi all,
After a decade away from the hobby (grad school, getting married, having 2 kids, building a house) I'm finally at a point in life where I can get back in to the hobby in a way I'm comfortable with. I'm 35, work in electronic engineering, married with two kids, and in the Charlotte, NC USA area. I was a master of thrift and DIY in my early 20's (and while still not opposed to it by any means) I plan to be a lot slower and more deliberate with this upcoming build. A lot has changed since I was last active so I'm currently in my research phase of the build plan. Thank you all in advance for the threads and conversations archived here for me to learn from and I apologize for dumb and (hopefully not) duplivative questions.

Ty

Peace River · Jul 9, 2023

Welcome to Reef2Reef!!!

vetteguy53081 · Jul 9, 2023

Kristopher Conlin · Jul 9, 2023

Welcome to Reef2Reef!!

CharlotteReefer43 · Jul 9, 2023

Thank you all for the warm welcome and allowing me to lurk for a while.

Reefer Matt · Jul 9, 2023

AScientificReefer · Jul 9, 2023

Welcome! Your gonna find alot has changed has changed since a decade ago I had a similar hiatus! Its going to be a great journey!

Rennurdoar · Jul 9, 2023

Welcome to the party, it's a great place to be! There's a ton of great people and information here! Be sure to start a build thread!

musel101 · Jul 9, 2023

CharlotteReefer43 said:
Hi all,
After a decade away from the hobby (grad school, getting married, having 2 kids, building a house) I'm finally at a point in life where I can get back in to the hobby in a way I'm comfortable with. I'm 35, work in electronic engineering, married with two kids, and in the Charlotte, NC USA area. I was a master of thrift and DIY in my early 20's (and while still not opposed to it by any means) I plan to be a lot slower and more deliberate with this upcoming build. A lot has changed since I was last active so I'm currently in my research phase of the build plan. Thank you all in advance for the threads and conversations archived here for me to learn from and I apologize for dumb and (hopefully not) duplivative questions.

Ty

I knew you would be back!

tharbin · Jul 9, 2023

Welcome to R2R!

Stephen8169301 · Jul 9, 2023

jda · Jul 9, 2023

Welcome back.

Not much has actually changed since you left at the core. The only real game changers were Mysis shrimp to get fish HUFAs and vitamins to help with HLLE. Also, Hannah now makes a reliable phosphate tester. The rest is just repackaged goods with elevated promises and manufacturer claims... best lights on the market, best tanks, etc.

Speaking of those manufacturer claims, they are worse now than they have ever been. Go slow, be smart, ask questions and ignore any seller or retailer advertisements and videos (even Bulk Reef Supply) and you will be set.