I know how you feel MG.
I give a lot of words of affirmation and get very little in return. I have given 3 ILYs so far today and got a lousy "yes" in return. I have tried to cut back on them recently but it's just not me so I have started giving them again. I thought that by holding back she might say some to me but alas it made no difference. You might as well give them if that is the way you are and look for other signs of love in return. Perhaps moments of eye contact or a smile. I don't think there's an easy answer to this one MG.
SD