I think getting your son in appropriate attire for cold weather supersedes any concerns you might have about your W taking financial advantage.
Buy the child some pants; be the good dad. I know you're angry, but this should be part of your "New and Improved John". He makes absolutely sure his family is provided for.
You said "Our Son", so I assume he is yours and not some other guy's?
As for saying, "Have a nice day at work" and getting no/half-hearted response from her--quit doing it. She probably feels like not the best person in the world for a whole bunch of reasons. 'Have a nice day' sounds sort of cavalier under the circumstances; to my ears at least.
Maybe try to keep it matter-of-fact: "Hey, W---I'll be at a meeting until six, then I've planned Spaghetti for dinner." Just the facts. Or nothing. You should have no expectations. So even saying "See you later" can sound like pressure if she has plans.
Let HER initiate the "Have a great day at work". Then you can say "You too, W." with a nice warm smile.
Remember the 80% rule. Let her take the lead and set the pace on day-to-day communication. If she isn't wishing you well in the morning or saying "sweet dreams" to you at night, neither should you. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Again, you sound angry. We all get angry. But make sure you don't make your son pay for the anger you really want to direct towards your wife.
That can be a 180 for you. Can you yourself go buy him some pants? That might be different... and would show that: 1. You heard her concern about the cold weather 2. You're taking care of your son's needs 3.You put the effort into shopping for him on your own, and even put some thought into what you would like him to wear.
Just an idea...
Focusing on keeping your communications at 80% of the warmth, content--whatever--that SHE gives out, will keep you busy. Except for spite and anger. That you should NEVER give back to her. You should always be polite and caring towards her, as you would a neighbor you're friendly with.
Think of how you might respond to various scenarios ahead of time. Good preparation and practice will serve you well when those unplanned moments of emotional interchange pop up.
The last thing you want to do is come off as uncaring about your son at this point, right?
Hey, it's a learning experience. Just be aware of things like this, OK?
--(G)GGG
Me 54 Him 63 M 23 T 29 0 Kids Funny Farm of Rescues 12/12 OW-- 5/13 ILYBINILWY: A denied 9/13 Proof OW: ENDED 2/14 Got D papers on my BD I kicked him out for my sanity 9/14 He wants to "talk"?
