I'll chime in on the video game seclusion and online friends. I think winter weather makes it worse because it's hard to get outside and do stuff and these days it's so easy to get online with friends and be social. My s15 is constantly online with friends. Sounds like you're making the most of those opportunities when you are together.
I remember how early on in all our sitch's we compared our lives to roller coasters. That example seems to fade out for all of us but I still think its true. But after being on the ride for so long we just expect it more and brace ourselves better for the drops.
Me:45, W:45 S:16 D:13 M:22, T:25 Bomb: July 2010 Putting finances in order for "D" Continue to live in same home-separate rooms