Update: I have been to half my appts with the athletic trainer and I am pain free and my knees now look alike again! The definition is back! I feel strong and confident. :-) It's time consuming to do the exercises twice a day, but being in top shape is so motivating for me. I'm happy! I won't run anymore, so will walk and kayak in the summer and plan on buying a recumbant exercise bike for winter and rainy days. I used on at the rehab place and it gets my heart pumping.
Thanks for all the replies! Good luck to all of you!