I've been there too D. I think I've found my happy place now. My "itches" hit after snakes 2, 4, 7, and 8. Snakes 1 and 2 were kings then I wanted something bigger. Snakes 3 and 4 were bulls then I fell for carpets. After rehoming the kings and adding 5 carpets I had to have the Olive. I was stuck on 8 snakes for about 2 years and really thought I was maxed out. Then we moved into a house with more room. I was supposed to get 2 final snakes for a total of 10 which is a perfect number of completion. Things got mixed up and I couldn't find the snake I wanted most, a scrub python. My 2nd choice, the Argentine boa, was taking longer than expected, and in my impatience I bought a BI but was still verbally committed to the BO. I figured that was a wrap and I'd have my 10 critters. While I'm waiting for the BO to get a few more meals in at the breeders before she's ready to ship out to me one night my little voice says check back with Dan Mulleary at DM Exotics. I'd almost bought a scrub from him a while back but passed. It was too hot to ship at the time and I was still on the fence and torn between a scrub and SD retic. He was also heading to an expo and figured the scrub would sell there. As fate would have it when I called Dan the Scrub was still available. I didn't hesitate for a second and told him to put a bow on that one. In the end I thought I came out ahead. I ended up with one more snake than I'd planned for but I still came in under budget from what I was prepared to spend on one BHP. I've since realized that's not really the case once I factor in the additional cages I'll need. I felt a sense of finality and closure after my 3 latest additions. Now I'm looking forward to enclosure upgrades and just watching them grow. I don't even want anymore critters even though every day I see more critters that I want. I've found the perfect place of contentment and serenity in the hobby. I'm in my zen zone.
Ultimately you're a smart guy and a great keeper. You know exactly how much you can and want to take on. If you see something you really love and you know there's still room for one more then go for it. At least you're only talking about a hoggie and not a burm or retic so space and food aren't a major factor. When your collection is truly complete you'll feel it. At least I did. For now. That could change. JK. I think.
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