Solved!

Ok... a couple friends helped me verify what I suspected... that the display issues on my new template are not my template's fault.

It's your fault.

For using Internet Explorer 6 or earlier.

Apparently Internet Explorer 6 does some wonky rendering of transparent backgrounds, and as that version is obsolete anyway, I have no intention of trying to make special code in my blog to make it work.

So... for those of you who can't see my blog correctly, I'd suggest you try one of the following:

• Update your Internet Explorer to a current version.
  
• Get Firefox. Great browser. Lots of great add-ons too.
  
• Get Opera. Not my favorite browser, but it mostly works and widgets make it fun.
  
• Try Chrome. Rumor has it that it works pretty well too, and it's sure to get better.
  

Not that I'll force you, of course. You're always welcome to remain in the dark ages.