I've had Bug for five years and I would say we've bonded
![Happy :)](./images/smilies/1.gif)
Bug was only just weaned when I got him, so it took a few months for the bond to develop, as he was still getting his head around the whole business of being a bird. It was lovely watching his confidence grow, and have him reveal his personality to us gradually over time.
I definitely agree with Elly that the bond changes over time. Just like anyone you live with for a while, there are times when you feel like you're more or less on the same page, and times when it feels like you're from different planets (I'm sure Bug thinks that about me sometimes too). The strength of the bond is that you both keep trying to figure each other out.
Something for you to figure out about your little guy is how he's going to express his 'bondedness' with you. Like many IRNs, Bug isn't a snuggly bird, and is usually happier exploring the room and getting into mischief than staying close by me. The reason I know we've bonded is that he checks in from time to time to see what I'm doing (even when there's not food involved!), and if I go to another room he'll eventually come and find me.
In contrast, my sun conure is extremely snuggly, and expresses his bond by staying as close to me as he can (often down the front of my shirt). This kind of bond has advantages in making you feel very loved and important, but significant disadvantages if you want some space to yourself! Given that your bird will hopefully be in your life for the next 20+ years, there's a lot to be said for a bird who's happy to entertain itself.
If you've managed to teach him tricks I'd say the bond might already be there...sounds like you're doing a great job.