FORUMS > Sex & Adult Forum Rules

For those of us who fall between 35-40, what do you think about the aging process? How have you shown or reflected the aging process? Is there a social impact?

I posted the original question in the wrong location. I apologize for that mistake.

Here's my response, again.

Well, does anyone want to grow old? I know I don't.

However, there's lots I can do about the way I look and the way I take care of myself. And since starting at the gym last year and taking my exercise programmes seriously I've noticed things have changed considerably for me. I certainly get more attention from guys of all different ages when I go out to bars and when I'm online I receive all sorts of 'proposals'!

When I was younger I did honestly think that sex for older gay guys just stopped and we all took up knitting. I think this still isn't helped by the fact that the gay media ignores men over 35 despite the fact that they are probably the ones with all the disposable income.

But if my experience is anything to go by then as long as you stay in shape and remember how to have fun then getting older isn't too much of a hardship.

First of all, I dont fall between 35-40 years. I am 41. It that mean I am old, no life, not attractive , dont belong here among all this good looking jock. Think again. I am in better shape then when I was 3O. I have more self confidence and certainly more financially secure in comparison to my younger days. I have acquire more wisdom, travel to so many places and learn from my mistakes. How it effect me socially (or you mean sex life)? Getting better , now my testorone level is lower , I can see beyong sex. I am more interested in people characters , the joy of loving and being together. Even my love making skill have been perfected after all those years of f----ng around. You be surprise how many younger guy are attracted to older guy like myself.

Until you are 33 years old you are what your genes have made you. After that its what you make of yourself. I'm in better shape now than when I was 33 in some respects but the most important thing is I am happier more productive and a better human being now b/c I work at it.

I agree, burninman.

My take on it is that parts of the aging process are optional. Typically, metabolism slows down, starting in the mid or late 30s, but becoming or staying fat is optional. I opted to lose the fat and get into shape. At 45, my body looks the best it ever has in my entire life. Unfortunately, maturity is also optional; emotionally, some people never grow up, and they continue to live lives governed unconsciously by their shadow material.

I hope I look as good as burninman when I'm 33!

I think regardless of age, you have to be happy with who you are as a person. Your personality says a whole lot about you and how you present yourself. The old adage: You are as old as you feel.

People tend to know me and know when I'm upset or not feeling well just by looking at me. Most wondering where my smile has disappeared to.

Then the whole fitness thing. Just recently, I was outside playing frisbee and baseball with my friends 9 year old daughter.... lol Yes, she's pretty much the tom boy.

After the day was through, I sat down and reflected over all that I had done. I was shocked. I was never out of breath per say, I wasn't tired as everything or even truly sore.
I felt wonderful and in a way refreshed. I realized then, since my time in the Army, I have never been better, cardiovascularly, in my life.

As in my profile, I want to be that 60 or 70 year old riding a bike and enjoying life. I have started a journey that I plan to travel for the rest of my life and I have fitness goals to complete. I may never be a true athlete, but I know now I can get out there and play flag football, softball and eventually learn to ski on the slopes etc...

One other observation I will add: in the gym there are a lot of hotties, but not all are sexy. I'm not saying I will never, but at my age and starting late in life at the gym, I may not end up with the cut or hard abs and that's ok. Personality and the way you carry yourself can make the difference in which you appear. Even when reading a profile.

So I guess I plan to be sexy. That's fine by me. LOL

LANCE

Yes, it's weird to see some changes happen, but it's a part of the cycle of things, and as cliche' as it seems...it all depends on what's in your heart.

I have known 30 year olds that seem 70, and have known 60+++ year olds who are more active than a 30 year old. Keep the mind fresh and alert at any age. Read, continue to learn things, because even the hottest dude can lose his zest if he's not interesting.

It's not so bad really. Seems like our culture is obsessed with age, but 40 happens. And it's ok for it to happen.

Every guy and every situation is unique, but in general--

In the late teens and most of the 20's, most guys are finishing their education and finding the beginnings of their occupation. Many things are in tremendous flux. Acceptance in different schools or training programs, a variety of job offers, and natural wanderlust means people in this range are frequently gone tomorrow or next week- No matter how attractive or how much fun they were last night.
Add to that the idea that many gay guys didn't get as much dating practice in high school as the conventional HS male.
So in many cases, a guy is just coming into his own at age 30. With exercise and diet and baring injury and desease, a man can be in excellent shape at least well into his 50's.

If a guy is reasonably happy in his occupation, these 2 or 3 decades can be the real prime of a man's life. Strangely, both extreme occupational sucess and perceived failure makes people vulnerable to depression and various forms of drug abuse.

what do I think of the aging process?

it sure beats the alternative!


PM8

I'm in my early forties and here's a few things that I'm adjusting to:

- Reading Glasses
I didn't think that majoring in computer science would mean that I would have to get reading glasses earlier than most people but it's true. Never had to wear glasses before. Nothing worse than on a date and having to put on your reading glasses to read the menu. Can't begin to tell you what happens when I forget to bring them to work. I want my younger eye back!

- Yoga
You can tell that your body just doesn't bounce back like it used to. After an injury, I started yoga. It's great and I love it but in a way, I feel that I don't have much choice.

- Grey Hair
I've noticed them more and more. Can't say that I like them. Don't need to dye my hair or anything but still.

Check out the 40 - 50 year olds on this site. Some of the hottest guys here. 40, over the hill? Nonsense!!!

Thanks for posting!

Yes, definately, some of the over 40 men look like they are twenty-five.

I just wondered about experiences between have, while they age.

Thanks again,

For me, the most significant part of the aging process from 35-40 was my metabolism slowing down and the resulting weight gain.

Hey-

Life is good, and I have no overwhelming desire to turn back the clock, but like treader, I have had those moments where I look into the mirror and think, "Who's that?"

I'm not uptight about aging. At 45, I understand a lot more about the world. That's why you see my smiling face. I'm comfortable with who I am and don't understand the mindset of a pictureless profiless, especially it middle age. At that age, someone should at least like themselves enough not to be so cowardly and timid.

As I've gotten older, it's gotten much easier to sort out the noise, the weak, the high drama, the stupid, and so on. That's a good thing. E.g., I pre-ignore pictureless. That's and indicator (being pictureless) of a wide number of underlying issues that I don't want to touch with a ten foot pool: low esteem, self-loathing, religiously conflicted, cheating, plain stupid, or whatever the reason is. As I've aged, I've learned not to coddle the weak and to not invite additional baggage into my life. With 6.6 BILLION folks in the world, there's no reason to have to associate with the bad folks. It's easier to pick and choose the good ones, and, I think, more prudent, mature, and less enabling to the mentally ill.

I like the fact, that as I've grown older, I train smarter; my decision making process is less impulsive; I speak from a point of maturity; I don't need nor seek the approval of most folks (other than a client, or employer).

Like I said, aging isn't all bad. There's definitely something to be said about not having youthful arrogance / low esteem.

And, of course, you see what I look like.

After 31 years of lifting, and active adult lifestyle, the proof is in the trophies, the health, the esteem, and so on.

About once a week, I get a hate email from some fat person, telling me how awful I am. I'd argue that there's no excuse for being like that. It takes YEARS to get morbidly obese. I have the same 24 hours as anyone else, or vice versa. I think we can choose whether to grow old eloquently, or...whether to grow old and be lazy and take a ton of pills, etc. I chose the former, and I have no regrets. It's a pity that those folks lash out at me. I certainly don't have the will, nor give it value to lash out out folks online. The lashing out queers, as I call them, have some serious self esteem issues, and resent guys like me, who, at 46, can pull a 9.1 to 9.9 ratings day after day, run circles in the gym, and still party with the best. I truly believe we can control how we age.

Medicine in this country is so much about treatment, rather than prevention.

It may not be PC, but, if a kid is 80 pounds overweight, it's almost criminal not to intervene. Yet, the system is SO fucked up, that someone gets caught with some dope it's jail time. (I like what Canada does there, better.)

If someone is lazy, fat, out of shape, and complaining about aging, it's hard to find any compassion here. We shape much of our life.

Growing older sucks. The older you get, the harder it is to keep up, the less guys want to talk to you, and the harder it is to stay in shape. However...

Growing older has its upside, too. You appreciate your friends more, you enjoy the physical contact of another person more, and you're better with technique because you're seasoned and experienced, and tend to know better what the other person wants. They say that a man peaks at 18 or 19. That's bullshit. I think that a man peaks when in his fifties. Ask me this again, in 10 years, and I might say that a man peaks in his 60s.

Yeah, you may have some erectile problems, but shit, you can have erectile problems in your 20s as well, and with the new meds on the market, well, you can get a rock hard erection, anyway.

Staying in good physical shape is paramount. My dad was old at 50. My father in law was old at 65 (10 years younger than my dad), and everyone who sees me is totally shocked that I'm 51 with grandchildren. They all think that I'm in my 30s. So frankly, I don't intend to even look like I'm in my 50s for another 20 years.

I think that as people become more schooled in diet and exercise, they're going to stay young longer. Some of you guys who are in your 40s even look like you're in your 20's.

Let's not dwell on how old we're getting, let's have fun and savor every freakin minute we have of life, and thank God for it. Shit, I wasted half of my life lying to myself and hating every minute of life. I want to enjoy the other half, look hot and live life to its fullest. It doesn't mean "eat drink and be merry for tomorrow we will die." Excess doesn't bring happiness. Moderation does.

So be young, boys, be young as long as you can, and don't worry about getting old. Enjoy every minute, enjoy every person, and be the best you can be in everything you do.

"Whoe'r thou art, act well thy part." - unknown

I've always believe that you are not a man until you are 30.

Now with some life experiance, that age can be bumped down abit. War and strife can do that.

I've never dated anyone under 30 yrs old. Its not a limit I self-imposed. I date and sleep with those I find attractive. And those I've found attractive so far have been 30 - 68 years old.

I'm 43 and in the best shape of my life.

And, as the photo indicates, I'm now at the point I can take off my shirt without being self-conscious.

I exercise, take supplements, do the skin care regimen...and it's nice to hear other guys say I'm cute.

Am I defying the aging process? Damn right I am!!

As I`m only 30 I keep this short, men who keep themselves in shape are hot no matter what their age.

"For those of us who fall between 35-40, what do you think about the aging process? How have you shown or reflected the aging process? Is there a social impact?"

I feel better than ever. I stopped smoking, drinking, and eating meat (for the most part). The best thing I did for myself was quitting smoking last year and I started when I was 14. I will be 40 on the last day of this month (June).

I am not in the scene so to speak though because I am married (to a man, we were married in Mass) and I don't know how it would be if I were single or out there in the scene.

I do know that my tolerance level for vulgarity, thuggism, ignorance, and incivility have decreased dramatically.

I know my age is showing because I don't understand this fascination with thuggism or the thug look, particularly in gay males, but also in general.

Speaking as a guy who's 50, I'd rather be younger, but not at the cost of knowing what I know now. I may not be a head turner when I walk down the street, but I'm in better condition now than when I was 40.

Age is not an issue for me as is physical condition. I know I could be in better condition (and I'm working at it) but I also could be in far worse condition. Granted, part of my original motivation was vanity based, but after getting in better shape, the other benefits are significantly outweighing that. I realize that we live in a society (gay) that places a disproportionate value on youth, without the balance of lack of experience that goes with it. It's like sex: doing it alot, doesn't automatically make one good at it. On the other hand, age doesn't automatically make you smarter. I've known people who've gone years without learning a thing because they 'already knew it'.

I prefer to reamain teachable, curious, and as compassionate as I can and will always enjoy being with anyone who has the same attitude, regardless of thier age.

Good genes play a big part in anyone's aging process. Exercise, don't smoke, have lots of sex and think young lol. Just live the best life you can and the rest will fall into place.

Aside from my twenties at age 42 I can honestly say that I am in better shape now, feel better, and have a more positive outlook on life then when I was younger. Staying in shape now is a greater priority because I don't want to look older than I am. I want people to say "wow, you look way younger than your age."

Time goes on. We were all 21. We all turned (or will turn) 29. And from there, you know, time still goes on. It's those who can cope, can reinvent themselves, or evolve, and prove that they can be a boy, a young man, a man, etc., those who are secure in WHO they are, not only their age,.... those are the most adjusted.

I love older men, I always pity those who post age restrictions in m*n(c/h)*nt ads or g*y.c*m ads.

Have they ever realized they might be missing out on meeting some of the highest quality friends or lovers, simply because of a number? And they, by the way, someday will most likely achieve that very number that, at one moment in time, was 'off limits!'

Such a realization comes with age, and those who post immature comments, lack that....

ah guys...such great responses from this subject. i'm nearing 37 this year and find recently i've shaved a couple of years off my profile(s)age online as once people see you're over the 35 mark, you're not worth talking to.
i suppose i myself have fallen victim to this way of thinking that as a gay guy, u must be not only good looking, but young. i'm very lucky to have been born with good genes, and i take good care of myself. my partner is almost 10 yrs my junior, and recently he's said i've changed. i met him when i was 35, at my peak, running around like a 25 year old!
I have to now acknowledge the fact that i am getting older, but with that comes wonderful hindsight and wisdom! combined with a good gym routine and healthy diet, i must say i'm feeling better than i did when i was in my 20's!

Speak the word Danny!!!!!!!!

Doug

" E.g., I pre-ignore pictureless. That's and indicator (being pictureless) of a wide number of underlying issues that I don't want to touch with a ten foot pool: low esteem, self-loathing, religiously conflicted, cheating, plain stupid, or whatever the reason is."

Seems that with age come "pre-judgement" and a degree in 7th grade psychology.

There is no question guys can have amazing bodies over 50; there is a certain thickness and maturity to the muscle that comes with age. On the other hand, it is much, much harder work, and so few do it. Until a couple years ago I was in the best shape of my life, and often was told I had a better body than most 30 year olds. Part of it is genetic, part of it is your skin, etc, but a lot of it is hard work. I've recently had some physical problems that make it much harder, but I'm working on overcoming that. On the other hand, no one cares how hard it is, they care only about the results. I will say, when I see how many guys in the 20's and 30's are fat and slovenly, I simply have no patience for it, at that age there is no excuse, other than not caring. When you are older, you have to want it badly; but, I suppose, one could say things that aren't worth working for aren't worth having.

As nice as a young body is, and at their best they can be amazingly sexy, there is something to be said of the maturity, wisdom, common sense, caring, other-centeredness and so forth that come with age, at least for some people.

...actually...I really haven't minded growing older...I have really enjoyed my 30's thus far...

...I feel more confident in myself...more content with who I am...more financially stable...and although it does take me more time to recover from track practice than say it did 18 years ago [that sounds wrong first of all]...I haven't significantly slowed down...my fastest time in the 800m at 17 [2:04]...I just ran 2:11 last week at 35...I can also tell I am much stronger physically when I race...I plan for a sub 2:00 800m in the 2010 Gay Games and feel fairly confident I can do it...

...thankfully, the running also allows me to keep my 6 abs...

- David

nice reads guys. Thanks.

(working on the pic thing - and getting validated) this is my 2nd post.

but, I'm outside the forum - being 41 and all - ha

keep up the great conversations....

Aging !!!!!!! LOL !!!!!!!!!! Check in w/ the quantem physics, baby... it all gets better.... To me aging is strengthening.

For fatalists -aging is DEATH.



Peace Jocksters !

Definitely have to give it up to genetics! Also, laugh out loud a LOT and drink lots of water. I don't drink, don't smoke and for the most part, have led an active lifestyle. I turned 35 in May and I would've said 32 was the best ever but so far, 35 is right up there! I have no desire to go back! Who says you have to grow old (age) to grow up?? :)

This is my first post I'm responding to, but it seems like an one interesting one so here goes...

I'm 41 years old and I must say I feel better than I did when I was in my 20s. I actually hated my 20s; the whole coming out, dating, trying to 'find myself', going to college and making a living. Those were some tough years. I drank too much, smoked and ate whatever I wanted or could afford. Needless to say I was a mess, and I was physically unfit and miserable.

When I got into my 30s my friends thought I was going to have a meltdown, but I didn't. I embraced those years with a different attitude. I started going to the gym and found a decent doctor. I really, really loved my 30s. I met some great people, I settled down, and I met my partner. However, the key I think, was hitting the weights. It totally made more conscious of what I was doing to my body and what I needed to improve my way of living. Through trial and error, I found a way to make working out a very important part of my life.

Now that I'm in my 40s, I feel better than ever. As a matter of fact, during my last doctor's appointment, my doctor said that medically I was 'boring.' My blood sugars were good, my cholesterol was good, and even my testosterone levels were above normal. I go to the gym about three to four days a week, hike and play basketball on my off days. The cool thing is that I know I can keep up with some of the 20 and 30 year olds in my gym.

So I think aging is all about how you handle it. If you approach an age milestone as a problem or something negative, then you're bound to not appreciate the fact that you only have one body while you're on this earth and you have to make it last as long as possible.

My only regret is that I started going bald in my 30s. I got over it though and started shaving my head.

Just my two cents...

RC

I look at it in a weird way sometimes. I think of all the people that I grew up with who were most likely to become this or that, and I was basically a wallflower. Now I can get out there do pretty much anything I put my mind to, have lots of friends, and no longer have to feel like I need to be any one particular thing or act any particular way to please anyone. Just finding myself and being myself has made me, bodywise the person I am today. I think it's great to be my age. Im not one of those people who down plays it and says I'm 38 but I look at act this.... I'm 38 and I look it and act it, but its awesome. I think guys my age or older are getting hotter and hotter by the way LOL.

I just do not give age that much thought. My parents aged quite well and i'm just hoping for the same. I hated birthdays until I was 30 and thought, heck for 30 you don't like half bad. HA. My bf is turning 40 (a year younger than me) next month, he is obsessed with his age and trying to look younger. I just don't get it, I don't have free time to worry about age or anything else.

Do I like it?... no
do I have any choice in the matter? I don't think so
but I can try to be the best I can be at any age
any more than that is out of my hands
...plus an older guy who takes care of himself is hot...no matter what age he is

I'm 37 and haven't minded the aging process that much. I remember when I was in my teens and 20s I was always attracted to guys in their 30s anyway... they just seemed to embody masculinity to me. I was actually looking forward to my 30s and have enjoyed them so far. I can't really say how it's affected me socially because I've been married most of my adult life so haven't really been out in the singles scene, either gay or straight. So I wouldn't know if I'm getting more or less attention. Physically though, I have noticed how aging has affected my workouts. Especially endurance-wise. My runs have gotten harder, and I tire more easily in the gym. That's frustrating. Plus I get injured more often and the injuries seem to linger. However, I am stronger than I was in my 20s. Sexually, I've noticed a change, but not altogether bad. It takes a bit longer to get it up, but once it's there I can last longer than I could in my 20s. So overall I'm content with the aging process.....

"what do you think about the aging process?"

I'm completely against it and will be making that perfectly clear come the next election!

I recently turned 43 and wouldn't go back to any other age for the world. For me, one of the best parts of getting older is that I don't really care anymore what others think. I haven't noticed too many changes physically and can do the same, or more, than I used to do. My younger friends have a hard time keeping up with me. I loved when I went running with a 26-year-old friend and he thought he was going to outpace me. He wound up walking half the time and couldn't keep up with me as we went up and down the stairs in the stadium.

On a sad note, I just found out that a 56-year-old friend of mine was found dead in his office on Thursday morning. He was such a good man and so very much alive. I never saw him without a smile on his face. He was a big help to me when I made the decision to end my relationship and move to New York - I'm not sure I would have been able to do it without his support.

It's really brought home the fact that we only have the present moment and that we need to make the best of it. Getting depressed about being in my 40s and single doesn't do me any good. Every time I start to get down or sad, I allow myself to feel it but I don't wallow in it. Lately, I've caught myself laughing or smiling as I'm walking down the street or riding in the train. Sometimes I sing along to my music, too (and I love that no one even gives you a second look when you do that). Lately, men and women have been smiling at me and saying hello, or flirting.

I guess the best thing about being 43 is that I can enjoy the present moment and be content.

s_daedalus2008 wrote: "what do you think about the aging process? How have you shown or reflected the aging process? Is there a social impact?"

I think the aging of fine wines and cheeses is fantastic - where would a good Beaujolais nouveau be without a decade or two of aging?

How have I shown or reflected the aging process?

Well, I am pretty pickled most weekends, and my liver remarkably well preserved, does that count?

A social impact?

Well of course there is silly - what wine and chees party guest is going to come back a second time if you simply offer a white zin from the box? One could end up totally ostracised from polite society!

R

ITJock, you're killing me.

Couldn't you have said Bordeaux?

Beaujolais nouveau (French for "beauty before age"), rarely lives beyond the year it was produced.

Then again, if 35-40 is considered "aged", perhaps ITJock's metephor is perfect...we've just been put out on the shelf and already the clock is ticking?!

First things first: realize that through good science, good lifestyle / nutrition, you can age VERY gracefully.

I'm 47 and aging very gracefully, thank you.

In my 33'rd year of lifting, people are amazed at me ... including my doctor. I'm one of those guys that put media misinformation out the window left and right, and puts truth right in your face, in a very EMPIRICAL way.

If you're over 28 you need to make sure your testosterone levels are not dropping to low. While GH still remains taboo, there are more and more doctors willing will to write a script for GH. GH, and anabolics, can protect you from a wide range of disease, slow aging, and make you feel incredibly better. Some doctors are in fear on anti-aging, and would rather feed someone full of stuff like statins, and ACE inhibs, but, preventing the aging, and the disease, in the first place, is a much better approach, in my view.

Avoiding saturated fats, fried foods, and keeping your calories UP is important to feeling good. Tobacco will kill you, period. And, over the counter drugs like Tylenol can ruin your health faster than a buttful of testosterone, any day. I have a VERY GOOD doctor who keeps me off of statins, ACE Inhibs, and the hepa-toxic NSAIDS. You have to be active. No ifs, buts, or ands about it.

Trying not to be a type A is a good thing, but, somedays hard to do, especially in the urban setting. Folks truly are idiots, especially in The South where literacy is lower, and it can be a true test of patience in dealing with them.

The anti-aging lifestyle can be proven, not just in how guys like me look, feel, perform, and act, but, also in our blood work (the emperical side). Don't listen to any negative media hype about anti-aging. It's bunk, and guys like me are all over America that can prove it.

As I've gotten older, I think I've gotten more insightful, but, at the same time less tolerant of bullshit excuses. E.g., if a person is a pictureless, or won't give me a full name, I won't have anything to do with them (although I'm responding here) because I won't be an enabler to folks that have no spine / need mental work done, and I also don't want additional baggage in my life.

It's important to be both selfless, and selfish, at the appropriate times.

Finally, although, I'm not married, I think having a companion counts for a lot. My parents are in their 57'th year of marriage. Something good has to have come from that.

With regard to gay culture, specifically, and urban culture in general, it seems that folks are very I,I,I, in a very rude way. E.g., yesterday a guy was attacking me over and over online. He obviously has some serious mental health issues, and has deep resentments towards anyone with self confidence (he made a complete fool of himself). I think people have forgotten how to behave. E.g., would you whip your penis out for introductions in real space? Of course not. Decorum seems to be a lost art.

As I've gotten older, I've become much less tolerant of really bad behavior. No pictureless excuses. No no name folks. No "I've got bad genes that make me eat like a pig." Truth is what it is: truth. I think as we get older we, through just having more hours on the plantet, get closer to understanding that.

Social impact of aging? Well, guys like me will have a marked impact in medical views over the next few years. I've been studied all my adult life. That's all written down someplace. At a personal level, I sometimes find myself feeling lonely, and saying "is this all there is?" I think many of us, as we get older will have a HUGE social impact: active lifestyles, money to spend, in touch with technology. All that makes a heavy impact in the economy and popular culture.

OK, at 54 I'm probably on the farthest end of the spectrum of this string, but I'm here to attest to the fact that there's life after 40..and 50, etc. for a gay man. Hell, I didn't walk into a gym until I was 40 and I was fat then, so that shows guys can improve even after we're 'over the hill.' Add to that the fact that I didn't come out until I was 50, yet I've had a wonderful life since then, meeting beautiful (inside and out) guys from their 20's on up who've shared their lives and hearts and who will remain friends for life. I've found that there are lots of men in the gay world who are blind to age and who look for what's inside in making their decisions about who they want in their lives.

I think I've been Svengali'ed.

see what I mean? There are sweet guys everywhere. Thanks, Starboard.

BTW -

Beaujolais nouveau is a wine of the Gamay variety produced in the Beaujolais (AOC) region of France that is officially released for sale on the third Thursday of November.

It is the most popular vin de primeur, a wine harvested in fall and sold before spring (much sooner than it could be produced through normal fermentation).

I have always loved Karen MacNeil's(author of Workman Publishing's The Wine Bible) description of the enjoyment of drinking Beaujolais Nouveau as the enjoyment derived from eating cookie dough.

Actually, IMHO, a really good Neauveau is best if consumed before Christmas or New Years.

The truth though is that Nouveau is the lowest wine in the Beaujolais hierarchy; that Beaujolais has 10 premier growths of far superior quality; and that the region boasts a number of artisanal winemakers crafting first-rate wines.

If you decide to try to get a bottle, stay away from anything by the négociants Georges Duboeuf; half his wine is bottled early, most of it is plonk. Look for a Mommessin or Bouchard.

Not all Beaujolais is subject to this flurry of activity. The Beaujolais-Villages, made from better grapes and given extra time before bottling, offers more fruit and balance.

So-called “cru Beaujolais” (those from specific vineyards or villages) gets several months or longer to age, far more like a traditional wine. The best are put in oak casks to age, and finer crus, like Brouilly or Moulin-a-Vent, can be laid in the cellar to age for years, in good years approaching the quality of nearby Burgundies.

Chateau Thivin (from the Côte de Brouilly appellation), Jacky Janodet (Moulin-à-Vent, the most esteemed appellation in Beaujolais), Marcel Lapierre (Morgon), Domaine Diochon (Moulin-à-Vent), Jean-Paul Thevenet(Morgon), and Michel Tete (Juliénas) are all superior cru.

A few years ago I took a bike tour through the area during festival time - It was incredible.

R

At 45, I feel like I’ve been pretty lucky with the aging process. But it sucks, too. I hang out with younger guys because it seems like most guys my age:
1) Haven’t kept themselves in shape.
2) Have given up their commitment to growth and self-discovery.
3) Have had the silliness beaten out of them of them by life.

The third point is the big one. I hate conversations with 40-somethings where the only thing they talk about is real estate, and everyone wants to maintain their dignified persona.

I imagine the 40-somethings on this board may be an exception, so I want to ask – have you found the same issues when it comes to guys our age?

I've actually met Svengali, and though his pics are nice, he's soooo much hotter in person. You know why? Because he's a MAN. That's how he carries himself, rather than as some sort of overgrown Peter Pan boy. And when he goes out for Halloween dressed up in silly clothes (I can say that because he borrowed them from me), he can indulge the silliness without giving up the manliness.

I don't think that it's fair to typecast an age group. I've met guys in their 20's and 30's that are totally boring, self absorbed and career obsessed -- I've also met 40, 50+ year olds that are fun, dynamic and engaging. It's all about balance and what you consider "well rounded".

Age can work for and against us -- it can either expand our scopes of reference and expose us to a diverse range of life's experiences that we apply to our everyday lives and relationships, or trap us in a cycle of conformity and routine.

Squarejaw wrote: "At 45, I feel like I’ve been pretty lucky with the aging process. But it sucks, too. I hang out with younger guys because it seems like most guys my age:
1) Haven’t kept themselves in shape.
2) Have given up their commitment to growth and self-discovery.
3) Have had the silliness beaten out of them of them by life.

The third point is the big one. I hate conversations with 40-somethings where the only thing they talk about is real estate, and everyone wants to maintain their dignified persona.

I imagine the 40-somethings on this board may be an exception, so I want to ask – have you found the same issues when it comes to guys our age?"

I think I know what you mean, and for the most part I think you are probably right.

I had a large party at the lake this summer - a couple hundred people - and it was very obvious where the the line was drawn somewhere in the late 30's.

All the teenagers, 20 and early 30 somethings were having a blast swimming, skiing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and playing on the jet ski's, etc. We had a great game of water polo, and the volleyball net was in constant use. Almost all the 40-60 somethings were sitting on the lawn or the beach with a beer and a paunch talking to each other about 'stuff' and watching the 'younger crowd'.

Iain, my partner, saw me talking to a couple of the older guys on the lawn at one point. He snuck up behind me grabbed me in a wrestling hold and carried me to the end of the dock before throwing us both in. I later overheard some 'attitude' about this from a couple people who obviously didn't think I was listening. They thought it was "childish and immature" and that we shouldn't have done "something like that in front of the children". I also heard a couple of spouses bitching about us 'being a little bit much' whatever the hell that means.

Screw 'em, we had fun.

But I constantly run into people who's expectations we seem to defy because we don't 'act a certain way now that we are older'; my family included.

Again, screw em.

For me, I think I might have been in danger of that kind of thing happening; but my partner keeps me "young" - and I want to stay "young" in part because of him.

R

Danny I agree bud. I have never felt better in my life, I thank my parents for the genetics, myself for the work. I have alot of older brothers and for the most part they all look at least 10 yrs. younger than their respective ages. I still play competitive doubles V-ball weekly beach and indoor and I get a kick outta beating 20 somethings. I'm off now for a short 10 mile bike.

Like Nike says Just do it!!

Jeez Look at Bgcat, Vamus Max and Danny to name just a few- Proof living/looking good!

It is good reading some of these posts - from so many cool guys with positive things to say. I am kind of new to Forums - and I like it.

For me - staying in shape, eating right and trying to pack something good or fun into each day makes all the difference in feeling and looking good.

I often have guys ask me what I do to look good (at 4 and I just suggest they hit the gym - swim laps - bike - mainly just make up their minds to have a good life - appreciate all we have by way of health and friends!

Here's my theory on guys who work out all their lives.

First, if you stay lean, you don't get saggy fat deposits in your face.

Second, we know the weight lifting spurs the production of human growth hormone, and while I don't know whether it's enough to trigger the hormone's anti-aging benefits, I have to suspect that it makes a difference over the decades.

On the other hand, I think steroids lead to puffed-up saggy faces in the long run.

Anyone know of any research on these issues?

You thought I looked silly at Halloween, Squarejaw? Hell, and here I thought I looked so dignified! Anyone want to talk adjustible rate mortgages?

I agree....a GUY who's taken ownership of his age and body, yet who is still in easy reach of his inner child is a treasure to be found. I'm trying to get more and more childlike....those societally ingrained adulthoods are sooooo hard to shake off sometimes.

I remember being so afraid to turn 30 and all the things i had missed out up until that point in my life. But now, I don't even feel age. I think luckily that a lot of it has to do with the fact that 90 percent of the people i meet guess my age to be between 25 (yes i still get that - especially after a shave and a haircut) and 29. I think only one person has ever even guess above 33. I once had two guys who were visiting who were two years older than me ask me if i liked older men. hahahahahahahaha. So that has helped. hehe. That said, I think the negative impact for me is that i tend to attract all these 23 and under crowd - because they think i am close i age to them. And though I might look like I am in my 20s - I most definitely am experienced as my actual age reflects - so have little in common with the teeny bopper crowd.

Oh the other negative is that - although none are on my head - i am starting to get gray whiskers. So that ever popular five o'clock shadow I once made a staple - is probably on the outs.

Oh well.

Salt & pepper 5 o'clock shadow? My perfect storm.

I have a little gray in my hair (no, it's silver, dammit!) but a lot in my beard. If I let the stubble go too long, I start to look like a hobo.

Hah, I get that. 1-2 days stubble = rugged. 3 days = wino.

My 30s were great, but 40s are even better. Being 45, I've learned that taking care of yourself not only makes you feel better and look younger, but keeps your mind young, too. (Full disclosure - I've been totally gray since I was 24, so yes - hair color is my friend).

Age is only what you make it out to be. I've known 35 year olds that acted like senior citizens and 65 year olds that acted like they just turned 30.

I was talking with a co-worker about two weeks ago about our new company pension plan. I told him that with my age and years of service, I could technically retire. He got a funny look and said, "How old are you?" so I told him. He said, "So am I - why do you look like that and I look like this?" I thought, "Well, put down the cinnamon roll and your grande pumpkin spice latte, and we can chat about it."

At 45, I have the benefit of experience... wisdom gained through making mistakes, observing others, and living to tell the tale... and there's more to learn. I find my tolerance for broad generalizations, stupidity and arrogance to be rapidly declining. I did put on some weight in my late 30s, and part of that was all the partying I did in my 20s catching up. Part of that was letting myself go after my partner died. But I'm on the path to changing that now. Give me a year or less and you'll see the difference.

I seem to be aging like my maternal grandfather... he passed at the age of 87, looked more like he was 60, and still had a head full of long, thick hair. My hair was totally silver by age 35, but I still have it and they do make color! He was also in excellent physical shape, so I know I can get back to that and maintain it.

It doesn't annoy me any more that some people won't even look at you past 40... because they don't know what they're missing. It still annoys me when a younger person speaks to me as if I'm a 5 year old, but I'm not shy about correcting that immediately.

Turning 40 isn't fatal... its just coming into your own as a person and starting the second half of your life.

I agree with ITjock and lissenup. Dead on.

I really don't think about getting older that much. I have a few greys in my beard but I don't feel much different physically than when I was 30. I feel like I have more perspective, and like someone else said, I don't much care what other people think about me.

I have as many friends than I have ever had. People in my family live pretty long. I am hoping my fitness routine increases the quality of my life as I get older.

Square BGcat you guys still look like young bucks. Keep doing what you're doing. Alot of guys 40-50 on here could pass for your Dads!! At least you're not all BS.

Chuncky went from 45-47 in this same thread LMFAO

1) I'm not uptight about aging. At 45, I understand a lot more about the world. That's why you see my smiling face.
2) First things first: realize that through good science, good lifestyle / nutrition, you can age VERY gracefully.
I'm 47 and aging very gracefully, thank you.

Liar/busted!!

First off no one said you look good for 45 or 47. You look 55 minimum. Now I know why you pulled your pics from the wrestling forum on singlets not to mention you looked pudgy.

You are more than a smidge full of it! Smidge was your word from 2 of your pulled comments lol u mary.

...

It is easy to fall into the trap of "acting your age". I had a good friend who was a windsurfer. I never thought about trying it myself. Just seemed to advanced and exotic. I'll just stick with what I know, thank you. One day I met him at the local windsurfing spot. I saw all these "senior citizens" out there ripping along. I think one guy was 70. I was inspired by these old guys not acting their age, and am in my second year windsurfing. This year, I went surfing for the first time.

"Never say no to adventure. Always say yes. Otherwise you will lead a very dull life." Ian Fleming.

I'm 44, and I'm in the best shape of my life. Got here after a lot of hard work. Between 35 and 40 I was caught up in work, happily "married" and didn't take care of myself. One day it hit me - if I didn't take charge of the situation, there may be no going back.

Weightwatchers, a trainer, and commitment, and six months later I'd lost 45 lbs.

Started getting looks and compliments from guys who I'd often assumed were "out of my league". Some didn't even remember meeting me. Swore they would have remembered me.

Aging is a direct reflection of how you feel about yourself, and whether you are willing to work to stave off it's effects.

I'm here to tell you that you can change for the better, even after 40!

Lol. 47 (real years).

I don't think I've ever acted my age. I've always been too serious for my own good and people thought I was older than I was for years. Now it seems to have reversed and people think I'm younger than I am.

I'm a late bloomer fitness wise, so I hope to keep getting in better shape as I get older. As far as appearance, the fact I do my best to avoid the sun - I burn really easy and can't tan at all - and take care of my skin seems to be paying off.

Some really great posts here and a few by those full of themselves. My philosphy has always been that age is just a number. I beleive focusing too much on that number can age you quicker than a carribean sun at high noon.!

nowajock you really are a jock now. stunning physique!

i hope some of the guys who want to lose weight read your comments. i'm sure they would be inspired.

I've always admired men in this age bracket because of they way they have taken good care of themselves -- physically, emotionally and spiritually. I've seen other men in their mid 30s and early 40s who look better than guys my age -- maybe that's just my taste for older men speaking LOL

I have the biggest crush on Jason Statham, Aaron Eckhart and Daniel Craig who looks so damn good for their age.

I was 16 when I once asked my grandmother what the secret was to staying young and she said to stay away from drinking, smoking and drugs. Two years ago, she said to me that a healthy sex life is good and EAT YOUR FRUITS AND VEGGIES!

How I love thee, Granny.

So this is where the old ugly people hang out!

Just kidding!

I'm just old and ugly for Halloween. After that, I'll be older and uglier.

I say GET OVER IT and move on. Age is something we cannot control, and one thing we ALL have in common is that we all get a year older on our birthday. Embrace it! I'll be 50 in 2 weeks. Yeeeeee-haaaaaaaa!

CuriousJockAZ saidI say GET OVER IT and move on. Age is something we cannot control, and one thing we ALL have in common is that we all get a year older on our birthday. Embrace it! I'll be 50 in 2 weeks. Yeeeeee-haaaaaaaa!

let's celebrate.





Hello! If people would not age who would i (eye-)fuck

I'm over the "aging" limit, but (again), thought I'd share a piece in my journal about my acceptance of "getting old".

http://blog.myspace.com/nathanjones61

One thing I know is that the older I get the less chance I get at finding a partner.

So instead of feeling sorry for myself or getting angry at how society views older people, I just do my darndest to be the best person I can be--for me and those I care about.

:-)

Although your looks start to fade in your 30s, other things improve that (for me at least) have more than offset any "cuteness" I no longer have that I had in my 20s.

For one, I'm much more perceptive about signals that a guy is interested. I used to be deaf and blind to that.

Secondly, I no longer have this infatuated puppy love feeling for the first guy that makes me starry eyed (and therefore drives them away thinking I'm their next stalker).

I have also gotten wiser, more knowledgeable, and much more confident around guys. And for some crazy reason, I seem to have more guys interested in me now than I ever did in my 20s. And here I thought gay life was over at 30. I never realized how many hot guys like men in their 30s until I got here myself.

str8hardbody saidAGE is just a number is how you feel. Getting old make me more appreciate life. I got more to offer than before I got a great life. I have a beautiful home, great business & travel around the world which I never done when I was a younger because I got more money now. Life is good I'm like wine the older I get the better I appreciate the world. I LOVE MY LIFE IT'S AWESOME & I'M STILL LOOK GOOD AT MY AGE!! Enjoy life to the fullest afteral you only live once. Enjoy the journey of life!

Oy, the humility.

jprichva said[quote][cite]str8hardbody said[/cite]AGE is just a number is how you feel. Getting old make me more appreciate life. I got more to offer than before I got a great life. I have a beautiful home, great business & travel around the world which I never done when I was a younger because I got more money now. Life is good I'm like wine the older I get the better I appreciate the world. I LOVE MY LIFE IT'S AWESOME & I'M STILL LOOK GOOD AT MY AGE!! Enjoy life to the fullest afteral you only live once. Enjoy the journey of life!

Oy, the humility.[/quote]

I feel your pain JP... someone define old for me! I don't consider 32 as old, sorry! Hit the half of century mark and then talk about aging. Social impact, you bet. Definitely shunned by the younger crowd. I've been told I've age nicely and that I don't look my age (probably don't act it either but for another time). I consider myself fortunate and to have great genes (thanks mom)!

CuriousJockAZ saidI say GET OVER IT and move on. Age is something we cannot control, and one thing we ALL have in common is that we all get a year older on our birthday. Embrace it! I'll be 50 in 2 weeks. Yeeeeee-haaaaaaaa!

Oh you say that now, wait until you go in for that half a century colonoscopy, then 50 doesn't feel so good! yikes! LOL

What a good post.

I feel like a young man mentally/physically, but lately have done a double take, noticing a generation behind me. I'm gaining an apprecaition for time.

The changes in my physical appearance are becoming apparant and am just trying to realise to embrace it beacause aging will happen regardless. I plan to live the healthiest lifestyle possible and hope it carries me through to a rewarding end.

Often think about a little plastic surgery here and there but don't also want to become Cher, constantly fighting mother time. Ugh! Is it really worth it?

I love people for their special ways that exude good times, feelings and memories. It is important for me to realise that my personality will need to get me through life more than my looks. The vanity card is a tough one to shake. BTW I'm a nice guy too.

[quote]
When I was younger I did honestly think that sex for older gay guys just stopped and we all took up knitting. I think this still isn't helped by the fact that the gay media ignores men over 35 despite the fact that they are probably the ones with all the disposable income.[/quote]

First not 35 yet but close. Second I agree there isnt much gay media in regards to older men. In most of the gay publications I see of my husband brings home there is mostly 18-30yo men. I have always been attracted to 40+ because of the aging process. Men like a fine wine most of the time get better with age.

My age doesnt change anything for me really. Im still me, the only thing that will really change will happen at 40. If the world is still around and our economy hasnt had a total collapse I plan to be retired.

i am 38 and proud of it. wouldn't change it one bit.

I'm 43 but still feel like I should be going to my college classes. Age is in the mind. One lesson I've learned over time is to take more time to laugh and enjoy life; One thing I would change to to have more fun, be less serious during college, etc. I have realized the some things are more important than others. The person's heart and personality will remain not matter how gray their hair may become; it will eventually happen to all of us. No matter what our age is; we need to enjoy life and spend time with the people we care about. They are the really important things in life.

I will be 44 in Aug. and to me growing older sucks In my mind I feel like I did when I was 25 ! It is harder to find someone for a long term relationship !

I'm taking notes, thanks.

turning 40 next month -- yes, indeed.
well life is good: i'm happy with how i look and i have a great boyfriend who is taking me to south beach for my bday!
so all i need now is a bartender or bouncer who'll be kind enough to card me, then i'll really be happy!

I just turned thirty-fhwore.
Next year I'll be thirty-fine.
I hope.

Well, people tell me all the time that they think I'm younger than I actually am, so I'm doing pretty good.

I'm the happiest and healthiest I've ever been, so I'm feeling great.

Hi.

38 now and should know better but old enough not to give a shit

To be honest, I think I have said this before, I think most guys look better with muscle from their mid 30's onwards. I think its because their frames take it better and also because the muscular or lean ones become farrer and fewer between and that shows pride and commitment