I get that too off H, about getting close but then insisting that we tell people. None of my family know about us yet as I know they will judge and the door will be shut as far as they are concerned. They will never accept him back into the family again. My mum always talks negatively about him anyway and that's before she knows!!
I think that when they get close, but then insist that we tell people it's like they are trying to convince themselves that their M is well and truly over. Either that or what they are really saying to you is - I know I'm getting closer to you, but don't think I'm moving back in.
Anyway, it all sounds positive to me and like you said it's a marathon not a sprint smile Hope he continues to move forward smile

H47 me48
T22 M21
S20 - Got high functioning autism
3/2000 H admits to OW and moves out to live with her
11/2000 H moves back home
2/4/13 H moves out
H tells me he wants D 6/13, but now he can't afford to!