I hope you take the recommendations above, and NOT fill in the pool. When my children were that age, our pool was a huge concern. I too was worried about the fencing options, and how they "look" - well - after installing a Life Saver Safety fence - my mind was at ease - it took a little adjustment to looking at it - but it is by far the best choice we made. I love the fact the we can remove it easily for an "adult only" party!
My girls are now 8 and 6 and LOVE the pool! They come down before breakfast with their suits on, and are ready to go! Plus, no packing up to go to the pool!
On a maintenace note, I have a 35,000 gallon pool - in Pennsylvania. I do it myself, it is quite easy. I use an automatic chlorinator, chlorine pucks in the skimmers, and shock once a week. takes me 15-20 minutes a week to maintain my pool. Plus I have an automatic pool cleaner which makes life SUPER easy!
I think you will learn to love your pool! good luck!
Kristen