Hey Andy.
I had a look at your blog and to me it appears you're off to a good start. A lot of questions there, but I think you'll learn the answers to most of them along the way as you go. Creating a tube is quite the under-taking if you're want your own with your own script. I wouldn't advise using a hosted tube for a long-term plan. As a temporary solution, it's fine however.

My advice would be to move one phase at a time and learn as you go along. Good luck!