questions from a newbie

Ok, coupla basic questions I'm hoping I can get help with.

I just got an 8" newt on a german eq mount. (Thanks Margo!)
This is my first real telescope after making a mistake buying a tiny
meade that produced nothing but frustration.
Ok, the first thing is, how long do I have to wait for the tube and
mnirrors to acclimate themselves to the winter nights before I can get
good views?

Should I take the scope apart or can I leave it set up in my living
room? I'm concerned about the counterweights. Will they do any damage to
the tube if I leave it set up for long peroids of time?

Who makes the best eyepieces? I'm not really concerned about price, i'd
rather pay more for the best than worry about saving a few bucks. And
should I buy a full kit or just pick and choose?

Also finally, what kind of views can I expect? I've only had it for a
few weeks and it's been cold and overcast so I still haven't looked thru
it yet. What will andromeda look like?

I know these questions have probably been asked before but i'd
appreciate any information from anyone who knows better than I.

Brian-