<p>OP is paying for more than her own clothing and toiletries. In my world, it is not the norm because most parents I know go without themselves to give to their kids. I do feel bad for OP.</p>
<p>I agree with you Oldfort, spending money for expensive cars and frequently dining out while the kids are given nothing is not the way parents should behave and fortunately, most don’t. Unfortunately though, this is the hand that the OP was dealt. I suspect katwkittens did everything she could and probably spent no money on herself to help support her/his kids with their activities to help get scholarships. The OP doesn’t have the same advantages. Supportive and wise parents with or without money makes all the difference.</p>