Just want to say welcome and hope you have success in finding a gym. I actually take private lessons about 1 1/2 hours a week along with coming to open practice about 1 1/2 hours a week since the adult program kind of fizzled out, so you can look into this option too. Fortunately, the gym I go to is about 7 minutes from my house. I'd be there everyday if they'd let me. I think the main issue is being taken seriously, like littlelady said, but I think you just have to be ascertive and determined because its what you love to do. Just recently I've been getting a little more respect. I think its because they can see I'm in good shape and making progress but I have to admit I still sometimes feel a little silly and like they think I'm just goofing around even though I want to compete again. Fortunately, I have one coach that really believes in me and I'm starting to get the support of the others now too. So basically just put yourself out there, find a gym maybe just that one person that believes in you and go from there.