Your cannabis plants look superb.
Maturation process after the cut is an insight that is important as I see it, and I am not sure how common of a consideration it is with cannabis cultivators. It would be illogical to assume maturation stops at the moment the plant is cut.
The trichome coverage is vast and thick, milky and turning amber in some areas. Your analysis of the harvest time is perfect in my opinion. This is when I would harvest. I prefer the earlier chop for the more active effects as well.
The political issues are disturbing to read about. It's unfathomable that we live in a world where none of us are truly free, tethered to an oppressive overlord always.
Stay vigilant and keep a low profile these days. Nice job overcoming difficulties and growing these beautiful cannabis plants.
RE: Overcoming Difficulties in August, Crop Update: Difficult Days and Determination Intact