Hey, I just created an update form for my site, so I can make a post and have it update on my front page. Right now I use blogger, but I wrote my own so I wouldn't have to depend on them anymore.

A couple questions...

Why do forums like this use bb code? Is there something I am missing out on, is it some kind of security measure to prevent malicous dhtml?

The javascript that AO has for posting messages is cool, like create hyperlink and stuff... but all I need is 3 buttons, one for bolding text, italicizing, and hyperlinks. I was wondering what that sort of system is called? I googled for javascript text formatting but couldn't find anything good. I don't feel like sorting through all the AO javascript either, I am hoping there is something out there I can use for free and modify?

Thanks!