As a useful first step, you might want to try a Wordpress install first. It's a great way to start understanding a basic MySQL/PHP setup in addition to CSS.
The interface is also easier and while it's not as feature-rich as a Joomla or Drupal, it will help you to understand how things work as a step up from your FrontPage and Dreamweaver experiences.

In addition, if you're considering adding RSS feeds to a site, you'll want to use php feeds as a more SEO friendly option rather than using javascript. Now you're starting to get into some more fun stuff!