I think that it is great that you are taking your handicap seriously, unfortunately not many people do. I can't count the golfers that I have golfed with that claim to be an 8 handicap who don't play anywhere near it and then don't turn in their card after the round.
They are only hurting themselves, it must be bragging rights or something, but I think its pretty funny when I play to my handicap (which is nowhere near an 8) and beat them off the stick.

At the end of the day, remain honest with yourself, and get your playing partner to sign the card (member or not). It would be a shock if your club actually checks the signiture.

__________________
SumoSid
"Moments of Greatness followed by Moments of horror."