I feel like an idiot

Ok, feeling like an idiot isn't new for me. Happens quite often actually. But, I've been trying to change my blog background and no matter how carefully I follow the directions, I just can't do it. I mean, obviously I changed it, but that's because I went with one of blogger's templates. I want a cool, colorful, fun to look at background and I just can't seem to get it right. The thing is, I kind of "get" html and its purpose and what not. I don't "speak" it, but I get it. I understand what is being asked of me when I'm changing it, but everytime I click save, then view, what I get is no where near what I was going for. Now my head hurts. I guess I'll have to try again tomorrow.