I would only point out the external factors that could be affecting his acts at this time of the year. January 2 was reported in one article as the most depressing day of the year, every year. News to me anyway.
He has just come through a seasonal holiday that is often one causing folks to reflect on what was, and he could be remembering when. That is not to discount him. It is only to support what the others suggest, keep the door ajar and one eye open. See if he continues to send feelers, or more.
If you are really feeling drawn to test the temperature in the coming days ... perhaps a comment back his way through someone such as "yeah, she spoke fondly of the past during the holidays too". However, like mentioned in the other responses, I would do so with little expectation of rational response from the irrational world.
