I'd join a normal server, but I'm kind of stuck on 1.4.7 because the RedPower mod hasn't been updated in ages
I'm liking the idea of using mods, but they also cause problems like this.
I'd say to use Computercraft, it would be pretty neat. RedPower makes a great complement to it with its bundled cables but it's out of date :/
I myself also use Railcraft, and I think it's great but it kind of makes things too complicated early in the game.
And Ghost, yeah. It's not a very good idea because a) the server's performance would heavily depend on the computer you're running it on, b) the internet connection it gets, and c) people could only play while you leave your computer running, and if you turn it off and leave, everyone would have to wait until you got back. That's generally alright for a 2- or 3-player server because it's assumed you're playing with your friends at prearranged times, but with people on the internet it gets more complicated.