Scott, Congratulations to your missus for getting her license!
I use my KX-2 almost exclusively and sometimes several times a week.
- just use an internal battery. Less wires. There’s zero difference between 10 and 12 Watts.
- FT8 is fine, but she will find it quicker and more enjoyable to make SSB contacts.
- K6ARK mic. is great. Dave @G1JKS and Neil @G7UFO also make great mics. It is easy to re-wire a baofeng $5 shirt clip mic.
- Definitely, definitely get hold of the new USB-C charging board by Manuel @HB9DQM! I’ve linked the thread below.