June 14

I can't remember what happened on June 13th... so it must not have been that interesting. I'm skipping right over it into the 14th.
Beth went back to the house in San Francisco today, so I have the house to myself. I lay out in the sun for a while in the morning reading Radical Democracy. I haven't read much of it yet, but so far it's been addressing the actual definition of democracy. It's really interesting to read about how different groups define it; I never really realized how often I've heard the word "democracy" used to describe a vague economic structure or some self-designated middle/upper class interest group.
Later, Shandin taught me to use a circular saw, a jigsaw, a sawsall, and a chopsaw. I was freaked out at first (I mean, fast-moving blades right next to my fingers) but after enough practice I got fairly comfortable. Then we loaded lots of dirt into a trailer attached to the ATV (all terrain vehicle) and dumped it into the raised beds, which we'll probably plant tomorrow. I'll probably also learn how to actually drive the ATV as well.
Just a few hours ago I shot a gun for the first time. Actually, it was the first time I've ever even held a gun, or been that close to one. I was so nervous I seriously thought I was going to cry... I still think guns are damn scary. But it got much easier with a little practice. I was using a Ruger 10/22. Once I got better with my aim, I managed to kill a water bottle!

I'm really happy to be here. This is my first contact with electricity in three days, and it hasn't been difficult to live without at all. Our water comes directly from the nearby spring, so I washed my hair in cold water last night. But not having regular shower access is a small price to pay to be living in paradise.
I don't know, guys... I may never come home! :P

For some reason, Flickr isn't working right now, so I may not be posting pictures of all this until tomorrow. Bummer!