I'll be honest, Libran (I am a Libran too, btw :)).
I have been blogging for almost 3 years now. I make nothing from my blog as of now. I wanted to make sure that I built up a proper following, plus a steady stream of pageviews before I even considered advertising on it. I researched my advertising networks quite heavily before I decided to go with the BlogHer, as they were closest in terms of my values. I only started advertising this month, so I have no idea how much I would make. I doubt it will even make enough to cover my food costs, tbh.
I still don't have anywhere close to the pageviews I would like to have, but I am working on it, not by quick fix posts, but by keeping my posts consistent with decent writing and photography. I am constantly trying to find ways to improve myself, and it reflects on the blog.
I suggest you first have fun with your blog, get a real feel for what you are doing, and find your 'voice'. After a year revisit the advertising aspect of it. I know this sounds harsh, but trust me when I say potential advertisers will find you much more attractive when they see you have a steady, well written blog with interesting content and a regular posting schedule. Do your research on advertising first, for example, are you comfortable with abortion providers advertising on your site? Or the Conservatives? Or Ann Summers? Choose someone who will give you some editorial control over who posts on your side. Be clear about yourself, your blog values and identity on it. Don't expect advertisers or PRs to know what your blog is about, half the time they go on pageviews, and I doubt many even check to see what the blog is about. Its up to you to work out all this.
I also suggest you have a look at MmeLindor's site, as it has tons of tips for newbie bloggers. Please don't consider my post discouraging, in fact come by and give us updates and you may find that you have loads of followers even without advertising. Remember, have fun. If it stops being fun, then is it really worth the hassle?