I am a bit late, but I haven't been online much, so I've got a lot of catching up to do. I just wanted to add my here...

I have had my Nagash (ball python) since March '06. After the initial "settle" period of only 7 days, I fed him, left him alone for another 7 days, and ever since I only take him out once a week, on feeding day. I mess around in his cage every 2 days or so to do regular maintenance, but otherwise, I let him be. It's not that he's shy...quite the opposite. He seems to enjoy being held. I take him out about 1 hour before feeding time, and we kick back on my bed together and watch television for a bit. He likes to stretch his body out down my legs, with his head by my feet. He will stay there until I MAKE him move.

I'm sure there are other snakes that need more handling to become tame, but Naga is just as sweet as pie.