Hi Scott,
and welcome to IIS
In short, I'd echo what Ray said.
It certainly sounds like you have done your homework.
Everything you mention is in line with my own beliefs.
The 12 DOB is a great scope to begin with.
Meade is a traditionally well respected company.
And Bintel are a well respected supplier and (more importantly) great support.
I also agree with ray that the first accessory should be a good collimator. I have the orion laser collimator (from Bintel for $79). And a light shroud (also Bintel have one for $69).
Once you are happy with that lot, you move into the area of better eyepieces. But lets not get ahead of ourselves.
Best advice I can give newcomers is to get along to an observing night near you and look at and through some various scopes and talk to the owners. Same applies to eyepieces and accessories. CAUTION: It can be a money pit if you let it.
Good research so far!
Good choice for first scope.
Keep asking questions.