Big Plans, Just Don't Have Any

First off, hi! I'm Max. I want a website.

I hate to be as vague as this, but it is truly what I want. I've toyed around on the internet with free hosts (Pffhhh.) to better understand server-side scripting, CSS and databases. I feel that I can accomplish a personal website based on what I've learned. Now here's the hard part:

I want to do this, but there are several obstructions:

1.) To even consider putting money into this, I'd like to have it all outlined out, so when I run it by my parents, I'll have a better chance of getting approval (Yes, young developer). Being new to this field, I don't have any expertise. So, my first question: would you recommend any registrars or hosting companies? Or rather, what is most important when shopping for a host? Please believe me, I've done research, but with my funds, it seems my choices are limited.

2.) Once I have my domain settled and sorted out, I'll need organization. What will my site feature? Well, I would like a basic design (with CSS, of course). I could pull together something, but even then, I wouldn't really be writing it myself, I'd be borrowing it from some guide off the Internet. Also, is this looked down upon? Should I even begin this project without prior knowledge/ability to write CSS (or beyond that) myself? I would like to utilize several (freeware) PHP programs. I was considering using a CMS.

3.) Thirdly and lastly: I don't know which to choose, because of my low-maintenance ability. Which CMS's would you recommend/not recommend? Should I even use a CMS?

Thank you for taking time to read this, and I would appreciate it if you could help me on this, as it is something I would like to invest time and money into, and your advice can only help me.

~Max