My father was 41 years old before he even got married. After he and mom tried and tried for kids (she was 35 when they married) they decided on adoption. At the time I was born my dad was 47 (48 when they adopted me). I have a youger brother and sister.
The first time I think I really noticed that my parents were older than other's who had kids my age was when I was in high school. Never really thought about it before that. Dad always kept himself in good shape (working out of doors, cross-country skiing, etc.,) so he was pretty much able to keep up with us kids as we were growing.
The real interesting perspective is now at this stage of my life (early 40's). I am dealing with things with my elderly parents that my wifes parents are dealing with with her grandmother (my dad just turned 89 this last Saturday). The only thing I regret (that's not really the word, more like wish was different) is that with my parents being so old, my kids (their grandchildren) will not have as much time to spend with them as they will with their other grandparents (assuming normal life spans, health, etc.).
Best advice (from the "kids" perspective): stay as healthy as you can, as active as you can, keep a young heart. You're going to love being a dad. Best thing in the world.
Welcome to the club! I was 44 when we had our youngest son. Feel confident that your newborn will keep you young. Hopefully you'll be able to retire when your kid graduates college...plenty of time to take your kid to the pub!
I had my first daughter when I was 38 or so, and my second at 39. I think it's wonderful! I love my girls, especially when they see me and run to give me a hug and a kiss, squeeling in excitement.
I can't compare what it's like having a child at an "older" age vs. at a "younger" age. It's wonderful, regardless.
Yeah, the sleep interruption thing gets tiring, but the joys outweigh the pains.
Congrats!
Congratulations. Being a father is a blessing that will be with you the rest of your life. Life as you know it will change, but mostly for the better and the rewards will pay off forever.
Good Luck with your expanding family.
I am 50 and we have a 10 month old daughter. We also have a 13 year old son and 10 year old daughter. All the same mom. I would not trade the experience for anything. Of course, all three of our kids started sleeping thru the night at 6 weeks so I've got that going for me. I can't imagine having a child, like my brother, who wakes up multiple times a night screaming (I say for attention!) I might have stopped earlier if that was the case. No regrets!
Folks tell me the baby has made me seem younger, but I'm just havin fun like I've always done.
I was 33. I had five younger siblings, and was used to having babies around, changing diapers, all that.
I suspect the changes in your relationship with your wife/partner will be the hardest thing to deal with, especially if she takes time off from work to be a stay at home mom. Give her lots of support, attention and make sure she has pocket money.
41 for the first and 44 for the second (but I feel so much older). They are now 4 and 1 respectively. It's exhausting. Forget about sleep (you don't need as much as you think you do). However, when you get up groggy in the black of night, trudge on in to the baby's room and lay eyes on that beautiful, screaming little person, you'll realize that there's no place you would rather be, then nothing will be more important to you that making that baby feel safe, warm and loved.
Congratulations. Now quick, go get some rest while you still can.