Well problem solved. I took it to Capital Ford here in Raleigh and it took a few days longer (a whopping 2) but after all was said and done, it was indeed the starter. I asked them about wiring and electronics and they them first, but everything tested out ok so they replaced the starter. Total was about $320, $180 was for the starter and remainder being labor and testing (that I requested).
Actually it's less than I thought it would be and the car drove home just fine.
Next up is fuel pumped replacement and A/C fix, in that order.
But trackdays come first!!
