[Myrddin]

You're probably pretty close. The federal and state income tax, social security and medicare are just the first hack at your income. Sales tax, property tax, registration fees for vehicles and now local income tax.

My home office work dried up in Dec 2008. Since June 2009, I've been in San Diego at my own expense to stay on a contract. Higher cost of living and taxes all the way around compared to my home office. When I drive back on Monday, I'll be headed to a room I've rented for $450/month + 1/3 utilities. It is 6.7 miles from work. Between June 2009 and last week, I had been able to stay in the guest room at my mom's house in Rancho San Diego, but that took a 60 mile daily commute to get that deal. That's no longer an option.

BTW, the lab you had a chance to visit was at the tail end of my embedded systems work. My colleague died in January 2010. I finally packed up the lab at my home in Idaho last June.

[patton]

I am sorry to hear that - both about your colleague and your lab.

I am no longer with the Firm - I am an independant. It pays well - when it pays.