[ QUOTE ]
double anything 8 or higher when it beats what the dealer shows...
[/ QUOTE ]
That's wrong, sometimes by a lot. Never double down with an 8. (You lose about 0.27 bets by doubling down with 8 versus 7; 0.18 bets doubling 8 vs. 2.) Only double down with a 9 against 3-6.
[ QUOTE ]
split 8's when dealer shows 8 or lower...
[/ QUOTE ]
Always split 8s if the dealer has already checked for blackjack.
If you are going to play blackjack again, I think you want to take a look at a
chart, and play on sites with a better rule set than Party. It'll be much cheaper. Of course, it is/was your money.