Anybody here keep spiders?

[reefgirl189]

Long story short I am thinking about getting a tarantula to get over my irrational fear of spiders. I figure if I have to take care of one it will force me to interact with them. My long term goal is to eventually become more accustomed to them and not freak out, screaming bloody murder when I encounter a spider in my house or while out for a walk. I want to be comfortable holding it eventually. I'd like a *gentle* type of tarantula that is friendly and relatively easy to care for.

Anyway who here keeps spiders and what do you like/what don't you like about them? Any tips for a beginner spider enthusiast and where to get one?