More time in the fridge won't make it harder. Once it get's to the final consistency it won't get harder with the chill of the fridge.

I use a teaspoon to measure the balls, but heck, you can use a ladle if you'd like! Or just fall face-first into the pot and eat it like a savage :-))

Yes the white flakes are dessicated coconut, I'd definitely cover it while in the fridge (so other food smells don't come into it). You should let it cool for 20 mins or so before putting them in the fridge and leave it in the fridge until you're ready to start rolling them.

Onde você mora? Se não encontrar pimenta Siria pode também usar uma mistura (em partes iguais) de pimenta branca, nós moscada e canela.

Very silly!
Que saudades!! Esse é o apartamento docês juntinhos?
Um grande abraço do Nando

Not if I'm going to end up cooking for you all the time - I'm not falling for that one... again ;-)