I think it all sounds positive but I can understand not wanting to get your hopes up. I'm kinda in the same boat. I would do as outlined in DR and just make objective observations about his behavior. Behaviors are measurablr acts (i.e. he held my hand NOT he seems happy. You can't measure happy but you can measure the amt of jokes etc). Changes should be noted in differences in frequency, duration, and intensity. If you see measurable changes then give yourself some credit. It's the easiest way I've found to count the good things without getting too emotionally invested. Good luck!
