I have not finished reading this thread, but it's very informative. I have struggled to make ends meet through my children's childhood and homeschooling (I was a SAHM for all these years), and we lived on a very tiny income that most people I knew would not live on - we lived a very barebones and simple lifestyle. I finally divorced (for my health and sanity) and my kids have been much better off for it, and I went back to work full time, which broke my heart because I so loved homeschooling. My oldest is now attending CC now and my youngest is using Univ of Nebraska's high school program. It's very difficult alone just trying to get the work done and deal with the finances, let alone worry about college. I have one car and we have to share it. Their dad contributes nothing. I am terrified about how I will help them get through college. I know I must sound scattered right now, but I guess I do feel scattered. My boys are everything to me and I want more than anything to help them get through college.
PinkyandtheBrains, I hope you find financial stability soon. I am sorry you are going through that and hope you do not end up homeless. It could happen to any one of us.
Right now I am trying to face our situation head on with honesty. My oldest wants to attend a private Christian school and my youngest wants to attend our local state university. I have been afraid to deal with these things, but I have to. I have no idea how I can possibly help him get into a school that costs over 41k per year. sigh...
Thanks for letting me vent a little here. I appreciate the wisdom here.
I am trying to be brave.