Hello Coach Ramsies. Welcome to the nut house. My only early advise is, SAVE UP. You'll probably need around $400.00 for an 8" 'DOBSONIAN' type t'scope. That is not a brand name, but the type. It's a very easy t'scope to use & transport. Just push & pull to find/track the objects.
An 8" is probably the best one to start with, but before you buy, why not contact your local Society, & have a look thru some of theirs? Get a better idea then, of what is available.
HTH.
L.