Q, Thanks for the links.
I have been to a MOC seminar and read on open carry some before and after that. I got some clarifications and tips on how to avoid accidental concealed carry at the Paw Paw meet up, such as going from transport mode in a car to open carry. That is, take the gun to and from transport mode with case on the trunk. I did a boo-boo and leaned into the trunk, so I will avoid that one.
I plan to carry while walking the dog around town. I stick to the sidewalks, so should not be an issue there. I will avoid walking through the parking lot of the grocery store shortcut, since they sell alcohol. I also won't stop in at Speedway, where I can tie the dog outside. I have to adjust my habits until I get a CPL.
I bought two different holsters at the gun show. I also got a heavy leather belt. One is hard plastic with a belt "loop", the other is fabric with a velcro strap and a belt clip. I am trying them out at different times to see how I like them. I do know that the hard plastic one digs into my side when I sit in my car, if I don't sit just right. (Yes, the holster was empty, so no conceal carry.)
The soft one provides more comfort when sitting, but it moves in ways the hard one doesn't.
Trust me, I am very cautious with the gun, for open carry, and general handling. Until I am fully comfortable with my pistol, I am not carrying one in the chamber. Once I get in some range time and tear down to clean it a few times, I will move to that step. My caution is more about avoiding accidental discharge. If I shoot myself, it defeats the purpose of carrying.
I also don't go to the bad parts of a city and look for trouble, which greatly reduces the need for a gun. Avoidance and walking away are good ways to live a long life. But there are too many unpredictable people and situations in the world, so I have been convinced of the need for a pistol for several years. However, finances have been an issue until now.