Hi Mike,
Your story is incredibly similar to mine. I'm 44 and just started playing seriously last summer. 3-4 rounds a year for most of my life previously, with clubs that I've had since high school! I purchased a Callaway driver last year, but held off on new equipment until a month ago, after many lessons. I got fitted for ping g15 irons at a local golf school In Ottawa and absolutely love them. Very forgiving, and very long (compared to my old set).
Initially I shot some higher scores, but in the past 2 weeks I've broken 90 twice, and have been shooting low 90s consistently! Last summer was 105+ constantly, so I'm very happy with my progress! And new clubs!
Good Luck, eh!
Mike