Actually, I kind of hated both. Also hated Trigun because of the Western themes, but managed to bull my way through Cowboy Bebop despite the theme out of sheer stubborness. :) The only western show I ever partially liked was Briscoe County Junoir, but that was just funny. I'm not putting the game down or anything, just saying it's not for me. :)

I'm the opposite on the kid thing, I taught my son 2nd ed on the basis that my main lesson to him is get along socially with everyone, but do what you enjoy. :) It's not always easy to find people who like what you do when it's not as common, but worth the effort, and better to do what you like than do something you don't like as much to appeal to the masses. He's played 2nd, 3rd, and 3.5, and joined me back at the 2nd becuase he liked it better, not just cuz Mom likes it. He's 17, the days of doing things because Mom likes it are long since over. Again, there is nothing wrong iwth your way, just explaining my train of thought. :)

I've played a few home brew, ranging from really fun to horrible. Nothing wrong with making something new. : )