How do I verify a gmail account so I can make a blog?

Just signed up for a free gmail account as their blogger site requests emails in ‘their’ format. I have recieved their confimation code but there is no link to a verification site. Without this their blog site will not allow me to create a blog. The only options they have available is a code via sms or voice message however I don’t feel comfortable giving my mobile number to a website along with not knowing if charges will occur. All wanted to do was create a blog, can anyone help?