How to transition from honeymoon phase to relationship

I've been dating my partner for about 5 months now and it's been fantastic. It's been full of energy, flirtations, inside jokes, deep conversations, and lots of making out. However, we just spent a few days together and feels like there was a clear shift from the honeymoon phase. This time the jokes and flirtations felt a little forced. Our connection has been based on a lot of emotional vulnerability, but it felt like this time I had nothing new to share and so we didn't feel quite as connected. We also had some disagreements about politics which didn't help. The abrupt change has left me questioning things, even though I know I care for this person and want to continue pursuing a relationship. Does anyone have advice for how to go from the honeymoon phase to the next stage of a relationship? Thanks in advance.