Is this a normal reaction for a guy to have when his gf tells him she loves him for the first time?

I think its ok. Most guys will want to say it first to you. Some don't mind who does.. But I guess he is feeling somewhat elevated by you saying it first.. Or curious.. So he makes a few jokes and questions of what he already knows. He is just happy he has gotten you where he wants you to be. If he hasn't said it yet, he will. Do this, don't say it again, ignore the subject and wait for him to say it to you too. He will.