If he’s from a part of the country where “bud” is a term of endearment, you may not understand that he’s basically calling you the equivalent of “honey”. So check that out.
However, if he’s calling you “bud” because he’s relegating you to buddy status, that’s of concern, obviously. 😕 However, you’re describing his behavior as someone who’s clearly dating you. He wouldn’t take you out to dinner once a week and pay for your meal if he considered you just a friend. And the fact that he’s introduced you to his family and friends means he wants others to know about the two of you as a couple — which is a good sign.
My advice is to not make a big deal out of something as small as a less than perfect term of endearment. If there are other signs pointing to a relationship stagnation, then take this “Bud” thing as another sign of detachment — but if all else is going well, as you seem to indicate, let it go and focus on the good stuff. 😀
I hope that helps. Please follow me @AskAprilcom on Twitter and on Facebook at this link: [url][/url].