It was dark. It was early. And Morningwood was… fully present. 🌲
The PAX assembled at the bathooms with questionable life choices already creeping in when it was announced that today’s plan was simple: run up Gaddis Mountain to Grand Oaks and back. Simple in theory. Less simple once gravity entered the chat.
We took off with Cap Gun immediately questioning the name “Cap Gun” as a cruel joke, while Sliderule was already calculating elevation gain, VO2 max, and the exact moment regret would peak (answer: halfway up Gaddis).
The climb began, and so did the sounds.

Leaky lived up to the name.
Misty disappeared briefly into the fog like a motivational woodland spirit.
Rest Stop kept firing off commentary that echoed through the trees.
Bloodhound locked in on the scent of the turnaround point like it owed him money.

Somewhere on the ascent, Fire Marshall Bill reminded everyone—loudly—that this many men overheating on a mountain was “probably a code violation.” 🔥🚨
At Grand Oaks, there was no ribbon-cutting ceremony. No snacks. Just heavy breathing, hands on knees, and a brief silent agreement that “this was character building.” Dandy, somehow still looking composed, pretended this was all part of his skincare routine.
The return trip back down Gaddis Mountain was faster, louder, and slightly more dangerous, with gravity doing most of the work and Cap Gun nearly achieving liftoff. Rest Stop finally got his name honored—unofficially—when the group slowed just long enough to question all past decisions.
Back at the tennis courts, we finished strong, mountain-tested, and still friends (mostly). The mumblechatter was high, the fellowship was strong, and Morningwood stood tall once again. 🌲💪
COT: Happy Birthday Sliderule and MISTY!!!Gratitude for strong legs, stronger friendships, and the ability to run hills before sunrise like total weirdos.