I can see both sides. My kids have been dealing with this for nearly 7 years. I will call them when it is their birthday and they are with their Dad but otherwise it can wait. Time with their Dad is just that and it is for me too.
I have worked hard to be able to get along with my ex not for his sake but for mine and my kids. We can do things as the "whole family" when it involves school for example.
Are you at a point where you can talk this out with your estranged W? Seems like she is using your daughter as a crutch to maybe make herself feel better. You know, I am a good Mom because I talk to my daughter every day, if I didn't I would be a bad Mom.
good luck, kat
Me-53(and learning!) S24, S21, D18, D17 Just keep swimming, Just keep swimming. Dory