Thanks, Cal! Writing back now since I have a little more time today than tomorrow. No, neighbors who stayed didn't need to help with anything except letting others know that their house was still standing. It was incredible/scary. The fire got very close to them but did not cross over the canyon or come down from the mountains. Their house/neighborhood is at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Of course, I was distressed thinking about the animals that were impacted. I get updates from the Pasadena Humane Society. During and after the fires they took in nearly 1,000 animals, domestic and wild. They are so dedicated and compassionate!
My hip replacement was not outpatient. I was only scheduled to stay one night, but my blood pressure was a little erratic, so I stayed one extra night. The worst feeling was how freezing cold I was right afterward, but that went away. Yes, I had to get up and walk (with help) the first day, which was doable. I don't recall how long the PT was, but maybe a few weeks (twice a week). It helped a lot. You could do the exercises at home, if needed. I got around by using a walker and then progressed to a cane. There was pain, but it was manageable, and I felt stronger week by week. I know lots of people who've had knee replacements and they were all glad they had it. Just be very careful when you have to get around to take care of your animals!