8" dob is a great insturment. Make sure you put it out on the grass, not concrete, to cool to ambient temperature for half an hour before using it. That will give you better views. Also, don't view close to any building as the thermals coming off the building will wreck your views again. Don't try to observe objects below about 30 degrees from the horizon as you will be looking through lots of turbulent air which will wreck your view. Try to observe objects high in the sky.
Two other things that will be needed are an observing stool, I simply use one of those folding camp stools. Without that you will end up with dobbers back - read crook back here. Get a simple torch and put some red cellophane over it to preserve your night vision when reading sky charts while observing. Red light does not wreck your dark adaption as much as white light.
As for the wife, mine is very understanding. She says I could be going to the pub and spending lots more money there. Try using that argument
