If you don't know how to install blog software, but would like to have your own site and domain, looks like there's no need to be limited to TypePad. I've pointed people previously to OpenSourceHost, who runs opensourceCMS, because they will install an open source cms for free. The few people I know using it have had a good experience.
However, I just stumbled on bloghosts which seems to go one better. They have a web-based application, Fantastico DeLuxe, which will let the site owner install a wide variety of open source software. Looks like it might be fun for anyone interested in playing with Drupal, PostNuke, B2, pMachine, Nucleus and many other open source apps. Pricing looks good, too.
Too bad our institutions haven't installed Fantastico DeLuxe on their servers for us to use.
Good stuff to know
Thanks, Charlie, for this info. The new director here is really big on blogs and is even considering making them a requirement for FYC. People have been coming to me asking about how they can get blogs up for their students; this info comes at a most convenient time!
re: Good stuff
Well, don't know if those hosting services are for all in that not everyone is ready to configure their own open source cms or weblog; TypePad would be better for some. But there have to be many people out there that are mainly intimidated by the initial install. And while I can't help someone do the whole site setup, if any of other techie English types at U of CF are interested in using Drupal for teaching, tell them I'd be glad to answer a question or two (as I'm sure, would others). Suggest that they post to the Knews Drupal forum section :)
Meanwhile, I'm guessing you noticed that the picture of the configuration options for the Fantastico DeLuxe interface listed phpBB2 ;)