Known him a few years??

I like my friend. We have been friends for a few years, but we never dated because, of course, the timing wasn't right. Now, it is. We are both single (at last), and I know he likes me. We have been talking a lot more lately about real personal, in-depth stuff about our careers and just what we want out of life. However, he is really shy. He says that people think he's unfriendly or not interested because he is shy, but I think he's great! But, he's shy, so things are moving slow. What can I do to let him know I'm interested without freaking him out? You should know I am not shy...I'm a little goofy and playful and just fun-loving, and I want to be that way with him!!!