I’m new here and I’ve learnt already that long posts don’t attract much response. I only got one for my post and it has been dead for 4 days now.
I see lots of similarities with my story. My H also used to be affectionate and caring, but it gradually changed, most dramatically from a couple of years ago. He also has some female friends who he exchanges some text messages with. I confronted him about some of these messages sometimes. Last time when I did it is when I got ILYBNILWY speech and he said he wanted to separate. I also noticed that he was not attracted to me physically for a while. I’ve heard that he mentioned that he checked out of our marriage some time ago (my guess is about 2-3 years.)
In my opinion you should try GAL and become a little mysterious. I don’t think that detachment will work. This is what I did sometimes before I got ILYBNILWY speech; I honestly think that this could create more distance between you. But, I am not an expert here and would like to hear some other opinions on this board.


M:50
H:52
S28 (my S from previous marriage)
M:17 + 3
BD: 06/12
S: 06/12 - H works in another state