You may never be "normal" in the way you were before any joint issues came into play. We live in aging bodies. We are not going to be able to run, skip and jump for the rest of our lives. I don't skip, don't need to, nor jump, don't want to. I could run, but most likely will only do so to catch a closing door, run from danger etc. When you come to terms with what you need to be able to do, as opposed to what you want to be able to do, it puts it into perspective and eases the disappointment. It does for me anyway.
I believe some of your concerns like taking steps normally, and possibly improved balance may still come.
All you can do is keep working at it while being mindful it can take a full year to heal, even longer for some.
Not knowing you, I really can't venture a guess as to how close to normal you are.
I believe it was our FA, Irish Joe, who once said if he's only ever 90%, he'd be good with that.
For myself, I agree.
I hope it cools down in your area. We were dealing with oppressive heat and humidity here that finally broke after the rain we had yesterday. Hopefully some relief is in sight for you also.
Stay cool and enjoy the day!
@allena