Noticing Newbies

Welcome Newbie and keep that pencil in your hand--or the keyboard under it. I know what you're talking about, although my experience was reversed. Rejected stories, joined the AF, didn't write until I retired. Still get rejects, but have also had a couple short stories published, so just keep trying. Don't know if this is allowed (just joined yesterday myself) but I highly recommend going back to school, either through a community college course, or, and this is what worked for me, the on-line courses through Writers Digest. I cannot recommend them highly enough. A little expensive, but worth every penny. Also, find a writer's group in town. There is nothing like talking to other writers in person. This forum also seems to be a good one, (again, only been here a day) and you'll need the feedback, comments, critiques, etc., etc. (And I'm older than you)