Why did you 'have to' change the oil out in the middle of nowhere? It reminds me of my father-in-law... if my sister-in-laws car is over due for an oil change when she plans a trip up to visit, he makes her stop at a Jiffy Lube on the way up... as if it really makes much difference.
I personally think 302 coupe's comment was a little harsh. While I do all my own wrench turning (aside from machine work, etc), I realize that it's not for everyone. The important thing is to do what you want with your car. If you don't want to wrench on it, then don't. Just find someone who you trust and also appreciates your car for what it is and stick with them.
If you have a good mechanic near your home, you may consider consulting with them if you can't figure this out.
Definitely put a big piece of cardboard under the car and start it up. Let it run for awhile and look for leaks. I would think that if the oil had blown out the filter seal that there would be splatter all over the engine. Was there any smoke from under the hood or a burning smell? If the filter was leaking some oil would end up on the exhaust.
If you feel like getting a little dirty
eek: ), you can check for excessive 'blow by' by starting the car, removing the oil filler cap (NOT the one with a hose attached), and placing a piece of paper over the hole. There should be suction present (pulling the paper over the hole). Rev up the engine a little and see if the paper is still being sucked into the hole. If it is, you're rings are probably sealing properly. If not, that may be part of the problem. If you are burning oil (from bad rings), the spark plugs will be oil fouled (black and shiny w/ deposits on them).
Also, make sure that you have a working PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) system. You should see a hose going from one of the valve covers to either the air filter housing or more likely, the carburator. You need this hose. If you don't have it, the engine will push oil out through the seals (since there will be pressure in the engine instead of suction).
Post a digital picture of the engine from front/overhead. It will be pretty easy to see if your PCV is set up right.