I agree with you that there doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day to get everything done. Is there any chance that you could ride on the weekends? Do you have any other friends that might be interested in starting to get out on a mtn bike? Any shops in your area that lead rides?

I haven't done any this year(yet) you can also ride with lights... and that is loads of fun.

Hopefully you'll be able to find a way to get out!!