Quick Roth IRA quesiton about withdrawals...

[RedBean]

Let's say you put $2000 in for each of years 1999-2003.

Over time, that 10k basis has appreciated nicely to $17k.

Is it allowable to withdraw the original contributions up to the 10k amount, without paying a penalty or tax, as long as you aren't withdrawing the gains?

Say you wanted to take out 4k. Is this allowable without it having to be for special purposes, such as buying a home?