Firsrt I would like to wish you a happy birthday (I know, a little late). The T-shirt idea doesnt seem necessary. The snake will only regard it as an item/object and will not connect it to you. If it makes you feel more comfortable then go for it. Also i would suggest getting a digital thermometer so you know what the temps are. At wal-mart you can get an indoor/outdoor thermometer that also has a hygrometer. Acu-rite I believe is the brand name. it has a probe that you can use to monitor the hot side temps. I would also recomend getting a thermostat that will regulate the tempature of the heat pad. Thermostats are a must have item. you can find them online for many different prices. As for the gloves, there is no need for them. If you did get bit (I highly doubt will happen) it wouldnt even hurt. They are called the ball python because when they feel threatend (this is the most likely reason that you would even be bit in the first place) they ball up and hide their head in there coils. But once again, if it makes you feel more comfortable then go for it. I wish you good luck.