Having a bit of trouble with my engine, and im just wondering if this is normal or if i should be worried

I have a 98 civic dx hatch 5spd, and recently, its taken a nosedive in the temp around here (i live in buffalo) the engines a bit harder to start now (sometimes turns over 5-6 times before it starts) but the other day, i noticed that my engine was significatnly louder...like way louder. especially when i give it gas in first gear. it quiets down a bit when i get to 5th but its still unusually loud.

to make things worse, im noticing smoke (heat?) coming from hood so im thinking somethigs up because i dont remember seeing that before....

im want this to be my learning car so im hoping its something i can fix... im also hoping its just the cold, but im pretty sure somethings up...any ideas?