I'm actually lucky that knee started to hurt when it did, as it coincided with the orthopaedist's yearly visit the island.  After a few consults, I go in for arthoscopic surgery, and in addition (hopefully) to a fixed knee, I get a picture of the scope of my left knee - the end of my femur bone.  The light part is the cartilage around the end of the bone, and the dark oval part on the right is where the cartilage has become detached.  The little white chunk on the lower left is where the detached cartilage was hanging out. The doc went in and removed the detached cartilage and smoothed the edges of the tear.  It's been week now since the surgery, the bandages are off, and I'm feeling pretty good.  Still don't full range of motion, but can put all my weight on it and walk around without any pain.  I'm still totally amazed the technology of arthroscopic surgery - how the heck can they fit a little camera in there and have enough room to fix stuff up?

Arthur's been a great help this week, keeping me well fed, my knee well-iced, and even entertained by his mad yo-yo skillz (yo-you compliments of sister.  Thanks for the care package, Nella! :)