Deputy Dog,
I am 46, Frozen ATPL, 970 hours, MCC, Perf. A, C & E. I have a wife, son and a mortgage.
I built my hours by instructing part-time in the evenings and at week-ends. It was quite hard on the family at times because I was basically working 7 days a week.
Still trying to land that first job although I did get an interview recently without success.
If you want any further info post your e-mail address.