Mounting home directory

[Don Doumakes <don_doumakes csgsystems com>]

I really like using the loop-AES encrypted filesystem function in the
new RedHat.  It lets me take an encrypted file, mount it as a loopback
device, and presto, I have access to my private data.  I also like
GNOME.  I want to use the two at the same time.

Here's how I accomplish that now:  I log in at a text prompt, then
manually mount my encrypted loopback filesystem using my own home
directory as a mount point.  (This way everything in my home directory
tree, including GNOME configuration, browser history, etc., can be
stored securely when I'm not around.)  I then manually start X.  Works
great.  I should be satisfied, but nooooooo.

What I'd prefer to do, is boot into init level 5 and log in from a
graphical prompt.  At that point, I can pop open a terminal window and
manually mount the encrypted file system as before.  But this breaks
GNOME, or appears to do so:  e.g., I can't open another terminal window
until I unmount the encrypted filesystem.

Is there a way to get GNOME to reread its configuration without logging
out?  (Or is there a better question to ask?)

-- 
Don Doumakes