i can so relate to what you wrote, except my mom passed away a few months ago, but if she were still here, I believe she would love them
The rest of my family and friends pretty much have the same opinion as yours. My sister even sent me the link to the African rock python who killed two young boys in New Brunswick, Canada.Although that was terrible, sad news, I tried to explain to her that there are many subspecies of pythons not one type in general and African rocks are not only illegal in Canada but are completely different then a ball python.
My daughter is trying to be supportive, but has concerns that my snakes may escape and smother her baby if she were to spend the night at our house. I tried to explain there are more chances of her in-laws cat smothering her baby then the snakes and the cat scenario is extremely unlikely. I believe it's lack of education and understanding of these beautiful creatures, that generates such fears.
But I'm a grown woman and now that I have snakes, I'm so very addicted! I have always loved snakes as a child growing up, and finally I can have my own!I still take precautions, make sure the tanks are locked and secured but that is also for my snakes protection as well.