Well well well. knock me over from shock. He texted this afternoon. With some kind words of approval over something I told him I'm up to. And a couple questions about something else. Surprise surprise. I waited a couple hours and replied with a lighthearted joke and then answered his questions. I am fairly certain I'll hear from him again. If I see this as some baby step of success, I will continue. Humor. Support and concern for his family. (genuine). More of same. And we'll see... I feel GOOD!