[Sid]

Wayne, My start was much the same as your's. I would find them and play with them as a child (and knew if I were caught by my parents the snake was domed). I married in 1966 and was visiting a pet store that had two Eastern Garters for $2.00 each. Those came home with me.

My wife being terrified of snakes, I only kept most short term. Catch and use to educate scout troops, etc. Then a few years ago I set up a reptile room and have them ever since.