I know what you mean about not wanting to bond via bitchiness. It's so easy to do and actually very unhealthy for everyone, I've been guilty of it in the past too and is something I've actively changed. My H was also only really animated over the weekend when he was complaining about work politics. I listened, validated and thought how sad it was that it consumes his life and makes him bitter. It takes a lot of effort to focus on the positives in life but it is so worth it. Good luck with your ugly day