Hi everyone

I only got my Kindle two weeks ago and I'm still very new here, so I hope this question is not out of place. I want to teach myself the basics of web development but don't really know where to start. I have an idea for a blogging website that I would like to create but I'm not sure if programming my own site with HTML and CSS or just using a CMS like WordPress would be the better option to get started.
In the field that I am working in, having an own website and know the basics of web development is a big advantage, so that is another reason why I want to get started. So maybe you can help me out with a few questions:
For a starters, is it better to get started with a CMS like WordPress or even a WYSIWYG or would it be better to built the complete website in HTML/CSS?
Are there some good books or online resources that you can recommend on WordPress and HTML/CSS?
What should I look for in a webhosting provider?
Still have quite a few questions and I'm a bit confused where to start

I don't want to spend a lot of money on classes right now, but would rather like to teach myself the basics by building this blog that I have in mind.
Maybe you can give me some hinters on the best way to get started
Best
Lauren