So I found some wheels that I think will work pretty well, they are actually tandem wheels so hopefully I cannot destroy these. I'm looking at about $400 to fix the bike up properly: wheels, shifters, brake levers, pads, new bottom bracket, rear derailleur, change from 8 to 9 speed cog and new chain. I really like the bike a lot and we've been through a lot of miles together so far. So I hope I'm not being an idiot in upgrading it.