petech,

You are exactly right. Contributions can be taken out (I believe after the account has been in existence 5 years). Anyway, at this point in time, my account is heavy on the gain side (vs contributions). And I really don't want to touch it for as long as possible. That is why I have some MNKD in my taxable account - I'll make some gains, I'll pay my taxes, and I'll have some spending money over the next few years if I want.