In Michelle's divorce busting book she encourages us to pay attention to the small things. Positive 'baby steps' are a wonderful indicator of whether things are improving but they are difficult to see and even more difficult to acknowledge.
When we are having this sort of marital difficulties we want instant results. A residency is haaarrd! I remember when my sister went through it. You are both under alot of pressure and its important to be careful and take things as slowly as possible.
Take heart and stay with your positive 180s. It sounds as though you are doing something right. Remember that patience is key.