"Okay, time I joined the blogging universe..." Topic

So give me tips on a good service.

I prefer free at the moment, but might upgrade for certain features.

What I'd like is a blog that I could easily add to my present website (perhaps in a frame; I know how to code that, though it's a pain) and be able to maintain at least a similar look.

But in any case I need the following features:

• No advertisements (I need a family-friendly, squeaky clean appearance).

• Easy to use and maintain; type, spellcheck, proof and post.

• Customizable appearance. I'd love to be able to add the graphic elements I use on my site to the blog.

• Nothing shows up on my pages unless I put it there or authorize it!

• Photos or galleries. Don't need a lot of this, but want some!

• Robust comment software with spam and obscenity filters/monitoring.

• Minimal hassle.

I've looked at Blogger/Blogspot, WordPress, and LiveJournal. I'm not opposed to them, but I'd like opinions on 'em from others.

Thanks for any advice!

I give Wordpress a big thumbs up. The server meets most of your requirments being easy to use, supports photos and has a ruthless spam checker. Down side is they don't allow advertising and have limits to the amount of customization your able to add. One hidden plus is that the size of Wordpress pushes up your search ranking – meaning that after only a few months of work, your blog can show up on the front page of various search engines.

I keep thinking about it.