One more practical question: I’m worried about the cost of my surgery (ballpark ~$10k). I’m also considering coming back to St. Louis for it, and I’d really like some quality time with Juno and the animals.

Would you be open to coordinating a short window (e.g., about a week) where I could stay at the house with them while you stay elsewhere temporarily? I’m happy to work around your schedule and keep it as low-friction as possible. If that doesn’t feel workable, that’s okay too — I just wanted to ask.