some stops are ok. i have done this without incident but then i don't always make the best choices....

the last time i drove on a trip the rest stops had vendor trailers (like at fairs, etc.) offering free coffee and they were manned by police officers. however cozy that sounds this began when they were trying to catch a killer who seemed to prey on prostitutes who solicited to truckers at the rest stops along that Eastern interestate.

also, SUV's make car thieves salivate and would increase your danger.

perhaps this way of dealing has outlived it's usefulness for you...?

what about a relaxation exercise instead? or a guided imagery for a way to get away? here's a site that has a wonderful guided imagery that is free. it is 20 minutes but seems like 5 minutes and is so relaxing: www.meditainment.com . I hope you enjoy it if you try it!

And here is a stie that has tapes (ok, I'm 53!!) or CD's reasonably priced. my psychologist and i did guided imagery and she loaned me several of her tapes to try and i liked them, so i ordered from the site: www.wholepersonassociates.com
I have "Wam and Heavy", Stressbreakers Two "Natural Tranquilizers" and Relaxation Two "Relax....Let Go....Relax". "Warm" from "Warm and Heavy" and "Soothing Colors" are two of my favorites.

And an author I like to read is Pema Chodron who's writing is soothing and simple and thought-provoking. I have "When Things Fall Apart" Heart Advice for Hard Times and "The Wisdom of No Escape" The Path of Loving Kindness. These are low key short books and offer a new way of looking at things. She is an American born Buddhist nun who writes with simplicity and humor and about topics that are universal; I am not a Buddhist but I like to read her interesting perspectives. Often it is very relaxing just to read her words.

ECHOES


edited to add meditation/relaxation stuff