I think your first bird is a female or immature Purple Finch. The more distinct cheek/ear patch and the white eyebrow should distinguish it from the very similar House Finch. As far as narrowing it down from sparrow to finch for next time, maybe try comparing the average bill sizes - I think you'll find that in general finches just have a heavier looking bill.
The second bird is definitely a warbler. Our two kinglet species would have smaller bills and neither would show an olive/yellow head. My guess is Bay-breasted Warbler. I suppose it could also be a Pine, but I think the high contrast large wing-bar is better for Bay-breasted. Also there might be just a tiny hint of buff under the wing (which they don't necessarily have in the fall).
Lovely little birds! -Kris
