Lonnie,
How you been Big Sexy!?!?!? You need all the help you can find, my friend! Honestly though, when it comes to a vest I can't help you. I quit wearing a vest years ago and now just use a small possibles bag. I can carry one of your dads slates, + 2 other pot calls, 6-8 different strikers, a flask of water and a candy bar in it with no problems. Always seem to have my jacket on, so don't have to worry about that, and use an old camo gear/stuff sack to carry my dekes in.
Kent