blog and site advice

I have several Web projects I would like some advice on. 1. Advice on the easiest-to-use, best tool for maintaining simple blogs or sites. I read up on Wordpress and think this is what I want. But I want a simple program that I can make changes to in a WYSWIG format on my machine, then hit a button to have it upload. I have several sites I'd like to maintain without having to work with a typical dreamweaver editore. I really want a blogger-type interface without uploading to the site to see changes. 2. I have one project that is a social networking site. The goal is to have many different group leaders in different categories. Each category has articles and events, so a simple calendar would be great. To get this going on the cheap, I'm looking at [login to view URL] but am wondering of other suggestions to get it going. Ultimately I'd like a myspace-type clone, but with the ability for users to have a blogger-type of account. Also on the list would be matching software that would introduce users of similar accounts to each other. 3. Suggestions on the easiest way to sell ebooks and similar products with a price range of $5 to $15, utilizing an affiliate setup, tracking different ad efforts, etc. Deliverable: At least 2-3 good options for each item from someone with working knowledge on these issues. I don't just want google results, I have already done that myself. I may also need someone to do another project along these lines and would like to re-hire whoever helps me to implement. ## Deliverables 1) Complete and fully-functional working program(s) in executable form as well as complete source code of all work done. 2) Deliverables must be in ready-to-run condition, as follows (depending on the nature of the deliverables): a) For web sites or other server-side deliverables intended to only ever exist in one place in the Buyer's environment--Deliverables must be installed by the Seller in ready-to-run condition in the Buyer's environment. b) For all others including desktop software or software the buyer intends to distribute: A software installation package that will install the software in ready-to-run condition on the platform(s) specified in this bid request. 3) All deliverables will be considered "work made for hire" under U.S. Copyright law. Buyer will receive exclusive and complete copyrights to all work purchased. (No GPL, GNU, 3rd party components, etc. unless all copyright ramifications are explained AND AGREED TO by the buyer on the site per the coder's Seller Legal Agreement). ## Platform document with links and details included, windows-based Word or other doc.