Thanks a ton for the help, after biff mentioned that LFS have high prices on dry goods i went back and looked at exactly how much more it cost rather than ordering on line and the price difference is $173 for the canister filter, 2 powerheads, and the skimmer. The prices from online were from Drfostersmiths website. it helped that all four of the items were part of their 25th anniversary sale. sso even with rediculous shipping (which it isn't) it would totally be worth it to return the stuff or i'm just throwing that money away.
So, i'll be taking it back to the store tomorrow and either getting it price matched or returning it. I'll fill you guys in tomorrow on how it went...
the thing i'm most worried about is that i'm too nice and the same guy that sold us the tank and stand sold us all of this stuff and, it's completely stupid, but i'm worried he'll be mad at me. he's a really nice guy, but that is just too much money to just forget about.
thanks again for all the help guys and gals.