If it was a clean install and you don't have anything to lose then just start over. Clear out the directories and clear your tables before you start. Then go download this version of 7.6 http://ravenphpscripts.com/viewdownl...ls-26-235.html. It comes with very good directions, tons of bug fixes and great security features.

If you're wanting the new features that 7.9 has to offer then I'd go with this version http://www.max.pcnuke.com/index.php. It lacks the security features of a Raven distro but comes with a ton of preloaded modules/blocks with some bug fixes of it's own. I ported my site from basic 7.5 nuke to that version without any problems and I'm quite the noob.

Here's my site if you want to take a look at some of the things it comes with. http://www.project-shade.com/whitestorm. Once you get your site running, I'd come back here for themes. These guys do a great job with them.