Just wanted to post a thank you to all of you for your kind and thoughtful replies.  
I have taken a few days and a step back.  Our next progress is a conference with my daughter's K teacher.  Then we will seek out an evaluation.  
I believe that my husband's brother is on the spectrum (and 2E), but has never had a formal diagnosis, so I should have considered Asperger's as a real possibility.  My hesitancy comes from reading the DSM criteria - my daughter doesn't fit those, but I know that girls can display differently.
Your experiences and devotion to your children are deeply respected and honored.  Good job, parents 

Theresa, thank you for your personal experiences.  I am deeply afraid that my kids will suffer from depression and/or anxiety (runs in our families).  How lucky your daughter is to have a family that supports her and continues to stand by her side and fight for her.  We are in the W Suburbs, too!
xxoo
Mandi