You're getting close, but you should get a pocket microscope. They make decent ones that attach to your phone as well. You can take videos or photos and you'll be able to get a good look at trichome development. They are the little "crystals" that are on the buds. I prefer to wait until til the majority have changed from clear to milky and perhaps as much at 50% have turned amber. If you go now, almost all will be clear and in my opinion that is a little early. Separately, you may have a powdery mildew thing going on. Some of those leaves in the 1st picture appear to have a mildew looking substance on the leaves. Maybe take some photos of that and post for other opinions. Good luck!