The court stuff was never about financial issues, it was all to do with custody issues but still, I don't mind writing about it because I'd already lost them by the time it went to court so that wasn't the most upsetting part. I viewed most of the court stuff as BS really
I don't pay him any maintenance either because I am in the unusual situation of being both custodial and non-custodial parent and he has more income than me, plus I told him at the time that if he tried to get maintenance I would ask for a reversal of custody.
He griped a few times back then about how I didn't pay anything for the kids but I just said that if he was that bothered about the cost of raising them, then I would gladly have them back and if they lived with me, I would pay for eerything without asking for a penny, that soon shut him up
Since I was FORCED to lose custody I don't really think I should take any financial responsibility. He wanted the responsibility of having them full time so until we are living together, he can take the financial responsibility he asked for.
I do still buy them birthday and Christmas presents and shoes when they need new ones. That is my contribution. I will give more when he lets me mother more.
He has long since accepted this fact and no longer mentions it. Likewise, I don't ask him for anything for materially for Alicia as he is providing for the others.
I am normally okay with my money but what with that unexpected massive bill, and all the bank fines and paying my CC's, I am just broke.
Don't really care too much, as you're right, it's love that matters most.