please just keep sharing your cute stories, and keep sharing your milestones. ive found that is the best way to break that barrier down with people: help the realize people care A WHOLE BUNCH about them, and they care enough to brag.
it's worked wonders with my parents and other family members.
I've been trying to- whenever I try reassuring them, they still get all grossed out about it. But when I do share a milestone or share a cute story, or show my concern and worries about him when I'm away, they don't ever respond