So, I'm new to this site and I must say that I plan to be a regular around here because these forums have some amazing people and info!

I'm going to pick up the new addition to my family tomorrow. He is 100% het albino and he's only about a foot long. I have a few questions though. I've been reading books, websites, and articles galore but I still have a few lingering questions. My mother is a vet technician so I plan to use her knowledge too if I come to a block in the road. I'm also good friend with the head vet at the New England Aquarium so I can always hit him up. Just figured I'd let you guys know that I'm not being ignorant about joining the snake owners' world!

So, for my questions...I apologize if they've already been asked before because I know that can be quite annoying on forums but feel free to yell at me if some questions are repetitive!

1. What size tank should I use for an enclosure? I was thinking I should get 40 gal but is that too big or too small?

2. In terms of heating, how should I set up my tank? I know I need a heating pad and a light lamp but I've read that one side of the tank should be cooler than the other. I'm a bit confused there. A thorough description or even pics would be GREATLY appreciated.

3. I should let him acclimate for a week before handling him, correct? I am rescuing him from someone who can no longer keep him and she says he has a great temperment. Her six year old neice handles him everytime she is at their house.

4. I'm going to be build a custom enclosure for him in the spring so what should be good for dimensions? I was thinking 4 feet long, 1 1/2 feet wide, and 2 feet tall?

4. What are some good snake names?! I like "tough" sounding names. For example, I've had pure bred rottweilers my whole life and I've named them things such as Malichi, Beretta, and Jefe (which means boss in spanish). I'm thinking of something like Goliath or in that type of fashion.

Please help me out guys! I'll be sure to post pics in the pics section as soon as I get him home!