I am anxiously awaiting the snowfall now!

Yes, having a good practice space is key. Mine is just a little corner in the living room but I have a good chair, music stand, and guitar and ukulele stand. I keep my electric guitar and small amp in the bedroom since I've been fousing on Acoustic. But it's just a simple space and since I live alone (for now) anyway, I'm not bothering anyone. Just make sure you have the right amount of privacy that you are comfortable with. If you don't have enough, it will inhibit your playing I think.

The Voltaren is over the counter now and much cheaper than it was with a prescription, so that may be something that interests you more. Sorry to hear your wife battles with arthritis and carpal tunnel. I have a number of chronic pain issues so I've really been loving playing ever since I took it up...it is great therapy! I never was "musical" before this and now I can't imagine my life without learning and playing music. So just hang on to that spark that makes you want to learn it. I have a feeling it will be bright enough to keep you going in this journey.