I've had the same surgery that you are contemplating. It's also the same surgery that athletes get when they break their ankle. You are an athlete. Anyone willing to endure -21 degrees for their love is an athlete. You would be better off getting the surgery. Recovery for me was about 4 weeks and now my ankle sets off airport metal detectors which is fun when they break out the wand to see what you have. Good luck with your decision. PM me if you want anymore details about my surgery.
A very effective image Conrad. Love the overall tone. The angle of the owl really shows its build and coloration. Looking forward to more! And get well soon.
Sounds like the worst part of the whole ordeal is that you are going to limit yourself to only one image per post per day. Hope you recover quickly, whatever you decide. (I'd lean toward getting it fixed right. I just remember my camera "legs" and how many tripods I went through before getting it done right.)
Best wishes and we will enjoy the "Conrad one-a-days."
A spectacular shot, wow. I know it's a tough call on what to do for your ankle. In general "Do Less" is good advice, but some surgeons are very good at this stuff.
Mark
No Buneo buddy The shot is beautiful tho. I guss you will have to come up to Klamath and shoot Baldy's from a car blind, I'll drive you to all the hot spots
Conrad,
I wish you a speedy recovery with your ankle and full mobility when all is said and done.
The shot is awesome and I'm looking forward to more posts during your convalescence.
John
Hope you recover quickly, whatever you decide. (I'd lean toward getting it fixed right. I just remember my camera "legs" and how many tripods I went through before getting it done right.) 
The shot is beautiful tho. I guss you will have to come up to Klamath and shoot Baldy's from a car blind, I'll drive you to all the hot spots 