Heather, Don't air your dirty laundry that is between you and your h. This is your business and as such, you should be only stating the facts of what you are expecting in return for your time as a teacher.
You could always say
I realize that in the past, our agreement has worked well, h however, w/the economy the way it is, I am going to be required to charge and/or increase by fees effective immediately.
Heather, why tell them you aren't expecting them to pay this particular invoice? That's crazy...you did the work...get paid for it. It's nice to be friends and do favors for others...but you are the one that is trying to find money to pay your bills, do the little extra things w/your daughters and yes, help fund your daughter's college expenses. Let's be honest...each and every parent can pay the bill if they truly wanted to. Many people cry poor me just so that they don't have to come up w/the funds. They know you have a soft heart and will do whatever they want. It's called using you. I see it every day.
Please stop allowing others to take advantage of you. Stick to the boundaries and have them pay or they walk...your time is valuable and precious.
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.
