As far as your original post, here is a shot of a building that I used ICE on to stitch even though I have 2 focus points.
On the right my focus was on the clock and on the left on the picture in the window.
ICE did a nice job with this as well.
I am posting it full size so that you can see the merge point.

2 photo building stitch using ICE

(Download)

Thanks Larry.

I have not seen anyone recommend this and I don't know if they would anyway.
Microsoft has a free program called ICE.
Image Composite Editor that will do most of the work for you assuming you have solid photos to work with.
I agree, manual mode and do not change your exposure as you pan.
I have had good results with this program both hand held and tripod mount.
It's a quick and dirty solution that works rather well.
Attached is a 6 photo stitch using ICE from this weekend.
Its not picture perfect but it is very quick and easy to use.

Safford Arizona Storm Front

Perhaps a glass of soda with the bubbles clinging to the side. Looks like an ice cube down low and a fluorescent light reflection near the top.