It has been several years since I've had a pet to call my own and, though I was unable to quite put a finger on it, I've certainly felt a certain emptiness.  Never before would I have been so sappy to think that having a critter in my life would cheer me up so much, but I now know that to be true after a new animal entered my life!

Yesterday, I spent no less than an hour in a small backroom at the pet store holding all of the legless reptiles that they had in stock.  I considered milk snakes, sand boas, garter snakes, king snakes, corn snakes and finally: ball pythons.  I thought each and every species I encountered was special and beautiful, but the second I picked up a ball (or royal) python, my mind was made up for me.  The moment it coiled around my hand, I fell in love with this beautiful and fascinating creature and did not put it down until it was time to leave the store.  In fact, I finished my shopping with the snake in hand!

I have always prided myself on coming up with unusual/unique/funny names for my pets and this little guy was no different.  I went with a suggestion my girlfriend had made when I had been pondering getting another tarantula:  Mr. Cuddles.

Check him out here: [link]

I'm sure you'll be seeing more of him as time progresses.  As it turns out, ball pythons typically have a lifespan of 20-30 years, but some have lived up to 50 years!  It's crazy to think that this little constrictor that I bought yesterday could still be around when I retire!  Wowsers!