I have 2 ball pythons, about 6 months old, never had a problem feeding except one time a mouse was dead on arrival and the snake that got him wasn't interested. I feed live at this point, never have to leave a dead rodent overnight and enjoy going to a local pet store each week to talk and chat about reptiles and its on the way home. I don't think I want to blow dry frozen rodents to warm them up but may change my mind as the prey gets larger.
Yes, snakes are not dogs and cats. Most of the time I have to leave the snakes alone to ensure they are happy and stress free. Our dog plays with us everyday. On the other hand, we just went out of town for 5 days and the snakes were fine. The dog I had to bring to my mom's house for the duration.
I like birds and bearded dragons and cats, etc... But I don't want to keep any of them.
Perhaps you can find a way to make your situation easier with your snake. Sounds like you are almost there.
Reality is never the same as imagination. My wife is really hot but takes forever to get ready when we go places. You have to weigh the pros and cons.