a cycle means you should have a break so that your body doesnt get used to taking the product, you dont have to change it, i dont think a break on creatine is a s important as some other products but a cycle of 8 on and 2 off sounds good.
im wondering if the labels say the same thing that the guy in the store recommended cause i think its bad advice.
you can definately take the creatine in your protein shake and i would have it 30-45 mins before your workout and then immediately after your workout.
there is a 30 mins window of oppurtunity after a workout in which you need to feed the muscles the required nutrients in order to maiximise the gains you get, if there are no or little carbs in your protein/creatine drink i would suggest having one with or mixing in a banana, you should also have a nutritious meal within an hour of completing your workout.
with this advice alone you should continue to see steady gains for a while to come.