Well, today I gave it a shot. I went for Saturday coffee with the guys. Decided to leave out the pad, and go in my big boy pants, and no protection.
Went really well, with no leaks.
But then, when I came home, I decided to cut down a dead tree in the front yard. Now that's pushing it. Ended up a little damp, but overall, I am getting really close.
Now this is a real encouragement to my psyche !