As usual, I totally agree with Irulan.
In California, there are a lot of free clinics for Beginners.
I think for women, than gaining confidence on easy fun trails leads them to liking mountain biking and then wanting to improve. Although your husband is nice to help you out, I think that people who lead rides specifically for beginners will help you feel less frustrated because women feel like they are slowing down other people when you are biking with people who are a lot better than you are.
Best of luck!
2014 Liv Lust
2013 Specialized Fate Expert with carbon wheelset (sold)
2012 Specialized Amira Elite
2010 Santa Cruz Juliana with R kit and Crampon pedals (sold)
2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle (sold)