Your writing career is starting at a difficult time. You have to work, you noted once, and have a home and two children. At least one is requiring additional time to get to dance or evening events. Not sure what events. Not many hours free to write.
I want to be published but you probably note I have changed my focus. My writing comes as time permits. I coach soccer (summer off, start again in August), work full-time and follow my grandkids lacrosse, soccer and field hockey games as often as possible. Writing is for when I am not bowling or doing one of the other things. Least I forget, I have a long-suffering wife who rates cycles also.
I have two book projects which I have put on a shelf temporarily. I cut a scene from the second project which I think might make for a short story I could get published. I am working it as time allows. Haven’t given up on getting books published, just haven’t the time right now for what is needed to accomplish it. Compromising with myself.
I hope you don’t give up your dream. It just may take longer to get there. Got a short story that might catch the eye and get your name before a publisher? I will submit mine to fantasy magazines, print, and epub types when I get it ready. How long? Not sure since life seems to get in my way often!
Write when life lets you.

BTW, I enjoy your down-to-earth posts. Don’t always comment but I read them. Cut down the flame on one end of the candle and let your batteries recharge as you enjoy family.

Several authors have taken time for their work to become recognized. On the other hand, some have gone the self-publishing route because major houses wouldn’t take them. An option better than quitting!

Do I want to be a full time writer? Maybe. Okay, yes. But this whole having a full time job gig, on top of being a wife and mother means I’m burning the candle at both ends.

You can only do that for so long.

And, after a point, you get tired of the sacrifice for no payback.