[jmerton]

I'm an engineering tech (land development) who lost nearly everything in the crash. I "lived" (slept) in my truck, which has a custom cap made for the purpose, for four months this spring. It's not a cheap way to live. It takes fuel to get food, to take a morning dump, to go to a place to park for the night. If you're not somewhere you can cook, you're stuck with carry out. Still, it was an experience I in no way regret. I learned a lot about myself, which, for me, is a spiritual thing. (See other comment about "Sleeping the American Dream). Here are some tips: Pennsylvania numbered roads (PA & US) all have pull-over spots; I was never once harassed by the police in these places. The Potomac River, due to the National Park proximity, is absolutely to be avoided. Interstate rest stops are only good for one night at a time. There are also what I call "late in - early out" spots everywhere: bars with off-street parking, hotel lots, repair garages, state forests with hunters parking. A little imagination will give you other ideas. I've over-stayed my welcome with a friend (while I developed an idea that I could not seem to market successfully.) and will be back to daily pay ($42 a day) and sleeping in my truck for the winter. Its not really that bad. It can actually be an adventure at times; it all depends on your attitude.