I agree that it needs a bit of proportion adjustment. I don't really think it's too wide, although it might be for some, but that that extra white space at the bottom needs to go. And see the background that's showing behind it from the original template header? You can go into the HTML and delete that as well....and maybe center the banner. If you're not familiar with HTML, no worries....you can find lots of Blogger helpers online that will show you exactly what text to take out or change.
And as for how many show on your homepage, decreasing it a bit might help some. Otherwise, I think you're off to a good start....you're learn as you go!
