I've heard nothing but good about that Epi Les Paul. And I'm about a decade (a little more) older than you and have decided to get back to learning guitar late in life. Keep us posted here on your progress.
Where in Texas? And Blueaussie a reference to Australian Shepherd? (blue merle?)
Good luck!!
Guitars: 2014 PRS Santana, 2013 PRS Paul's, 2009 PRS Hollowbody I, 1972 Gibson ES-325, 2012 Fender American Standard Stratocaster, 2020 Fender Telecaster, 2001 PRS Santana SE, 2021 Martin M-36, 2021 Martin 000-15M, Seagull S6 Classic, 2012 Yamaha Pacifica Amps: Fender Blues Junior III, Boss Eband JS-10, Line 6 POD HD500X, Quilter Microblock 45 w/homemade 12" cab.