1997 Ford Escort my car has been acting funny and now is dy

After I start the car and begin going it starts to shake and kick then it kicks out and drives good. Then for about 3-4 of the next stops when I try to press on the gas, it feels like the pedal is fighting back and doesn't wanna pick up. If I easy into it and push it out or switch between drive, neutral, drive it will kick in to the right gear and drive fine. After a few times it drives fine! Latley it hasn't just been stalling at a few stops its been dying about 2-3 each time then stops. It also died 1x while parking. I checked my transmission when the problem started I was told everything was fine. I know I need an oil change now and will but feel these 2 things are sep. Issues. I don't know what to do and I have a big trip ahead of me and litte time to fix it and I'm worried. Any ideas?