Is it normal for a stray cat to follow you around?

Well yes, when he needed care and nourishment you were there for him... when you feed cats they think you must be the greatest hunter to get food like that, and are honored you would share it with them... I think you should take him in when youre ready... its most definitely not a ''pain in the backside'' lol! at least no more than most other pets. They keep to themselves mostly, should be automatically litterbox trained, the only trouble you might have is with scratching up the furniture or jumping on the counter, but can easily teach them not to. i guess it really depends what kind of person you are but i love my cat, hes old now and very cuddly.......we have a lot of good times^^