I think I really scewed up during initial start up...

YES, just replace the ballast resistor already, can't hurt if it seems to be the culprit as they are super cheap and everywhere. Try jumping the ballast resistor and see if it starts. If it does you know for sure it's the resistor; turn it off quick though because you'll burn up the coil.

Also for some reason it seems like people are too afraid of advancing the ignition more to help it run better. If the ballast resistor doesn't do it you should try advancing the timing a little (turn distributor counter-clockwise, it'll usually backfire if it's too retarded. Too advanced and it'll kick back against the starter.