And you're laugh at this...Apparently it was the oil! It got into the spark plugs, which were overdue for a changeover anyway, and screwed up the works. (Course, the puddles also were a factor.) Anyhow, the plugs have been replaced, the oil's been drained to a safe level (and believe me, guys, I've dodged a major bullet here.), and things are running smoothly now. It cost some cash, but what auto repair doesn't. Within a couple days, I'll get a proper oil change and this little episode will be behind me.
Thanks for all the help, guys. I'll be back from time to time to ask for some tips and all. Again, thanks.