Hello Tom and welcome,
Thanks for the great introduction, I'm sure you will love your astro adventure. I am often amazed by the different reactions of people to the wonders above, and I'm thrilled when I hear others feel like I do and just marvel at the cosmos. (Makes me feel less like a geek !!)
In total contrast to me, my wife and her family would only look up if I went to the moon and painted it pink.
Personally I don't go anywhere without a pair of binoculars in the car, without doubt the most useful astro equipment.
There are many many threads on here which give the pros and cons of various telescopes but the best thing to do is try before you buy anything.
If you post your location you might find members who are willing to show off their scopes. I am down in the Snowy Mountains so if you are passing by you're welcome to try my little refractor in a very dark site.
(Suzy, I see you're still writing essays .....
)