Age Gap Relationships — What’s your perception?

I’m 37 and my boyfriend John of 2 years is 52. We’re aware of our age gap ie. having those “when I’m x yrs old you’ll be x years old” conversations early on, and now the only time it really comes up is when he rags on me for being a millennial and I rag on him for being gen x.

We both have really good jobs, so there’s really no way to claim I’m a golddigger in this situation. Plus we’re in a similar life stage, both being divorced with children. We get on great & have a ton in common, we really love each other. I’ll add too, when we met (through work), we had no idea how old each other were. I guessed mid to late 40s for him and he was sure I was in my 40s based on my job/age of my kids.

That said, reactions to our relationships have been mixed. My mom doesn’t seem thrilled that I’m seeing someone the same age as my stepdad’s sister, so my “step aunt.” She hasn’t been direct about it, but it bothers me how often she reminds me that they’re the same age.

Additionally, his ex wife allegedly calls me “John’s little kid” to his children, prompting his daughter to ask me once if I’m young enough to be her dad’s daughter.

Although I’d say it’s not too common, we do sometimes get looks at restaurants or at church as well. I don’t think we look like we’re that far apart in age, but maybe we do? I’m not sure.

It doesn’t bother me too, too much, and he seems to be unbothered by it entirely. That said, I’m wondering what you all think? Would you judge a couple with a 15 year age gap? Would you ever date someone who’s 15 years older than you?