Your tank sounds exactly like mine ... I took the shrimp out as it wouldn't go over two. I ended up putting it back In the same day and in 2 days spiked to 8 than I took it out. My trites and trates have been high for few days so I did a 30% WC and my readings are getting there. My trates are still a bit high. But I'll be Adding some snails soon.
I love how your tank has one side built up. It looks great!!! That stand is beautiful, good work! Once I get another bigger tank I'd love to do some stonework!!! Unfortunately for cycling it sounds to me like every tank will be different. Really every LR and filter systems are always different... So it's hard to kno what will work for each tank. Yours sounds like how mine went and I'm starting to think mines finally on the right track!