I think you hit the nail on the head at the end of your post. She's felt controlled. You're letting go. Maybe it was a test. If so, you passed. Good job. Hell, maybe she just wanted a new car. Doesn't make sense, but who knows.
At any rate, if she's still on board for a trip and still emotionally present, things are trending up. I must admit to the same thought as Stew, but you "sound" different this time, if that makes sense. I'd keep an BS meter up, but this sounds for real to me (and to you, it looks like).
BD
My latest
Me: 36 W: 35 2 D: 9 and 5 T: 16 years M: 12 10/4/06: Bomb 10/5/06: Ended A 4/22/07: ILYBNILWY