Agreed its normal stuff. Read Passionate Marriage by D Schnarch. He talks about doing those things. Also discusses things like hugging until relaxed, eyes-open kissing( you're Probably NOT THERE YET).
Good luck...its inspiring to read your story although I think my outcome will be more like Rick's.
me: 47, W:49 M 16.5 years T 17 years Three kids - D17,D14, S13 Heart 2 heart about M 11/8/13 Bomb drop 11/29/13 W moved out 12/5/13 I Retained L 2/20/14 D filed 3/17/14