So i was looking under my hood today because I felt a lack of kick/horse power while driving, and noticed that there was a little bit of smoke (it wasn't white) that really just looked like steam from a stove or something, and it was coming from only the left side of the block. The steam/smoke didn't smell or anything. Do you think it could be that I need to tighten something down? or does it sound more serious?

 

Sounds like it needs valve cover gaskets.

Doesn't sound like there's any connection with "lack of power" type complaints.

 

I agree. Sounds like the valve covers might be leaking some oil!

 

could it be a exsaust manifold gasket

a slight ticking noise would accompany this type of leak