I have done pretty much the same thing as GeorgeBurdell. I bought the Ericsson T28 (paid $50 for it) and put it on VoiceStream's $19.99 a month plan.
I use it up to the plan limit in the States and even though the calls in Europe are all roaming and a bit expensive, it is difficult to beat the convenience of having a US telephone number when you travel overseas.
And it gets a serious workout, for aside from my own use (especially heavy when we were trapped in Europe after the attacks) I have lent it to traveling friends and family three times in the past two months.

[This message has been edited by monitor (edited 10-05-2001).]