Well, one thing I believe is that learning an instrument always means, at whatever age, having to deal with that stage where nothing sounds like you think it should sound. I myself plan to work on mandolin (at least) and fiddle and maybe concertina (I'm 49). I've always wanted to play penny whistle (I bid on one of the whistles in the auction)--I think that passion as well as persistance and patience will take you almost anywhere. I also believe that the part of learning which is frustrating and mistake-filled is one of the most richest aspects of learning, and it may be that our brains think so too. Forge ahead, rebuild those synapses, and by all means let us know what happens.

blt