Anyone ever plant your own pumpkin patch ?

I don't care about growing huge pumkins, in fact, I feel the more the merrier so...

I've done a little research but i guess i'd like to here some success stories about others growing pumpkins before i put my time and effort in...

i know pumpkins need lots of sunlight, rich soil, water and time but what else?
Also I want to sow seeds outside and am concerned about animals eating the seedlings. Advice is much appreciated!