Lizard King was absent, to begin with. There is no doubt whatever about that. We knew this because he sent YHC with the flag and his kettle bells. The register of his absence was noted by all PAX in attendance.

And yet, though physically absent, his spirit was present. He managed to cast a long, looming shadow over the morning’s proceedings. He was felt everywhere and by everyone. So in an effort to appease his spirit, there seemed but one thing to do: bring it.

And so it was brought. A quick WOR followed by a trip to the middle school stairs for 3 mini BD’s. BD1: 11’s with triple threats at the bottom and goblet squats at the time. BD2: various team exercises with breaks for running a loop around the traffic island or more stairs climbs. BD3: another set of 11’s, “we’re not worthies” at the bottom and OH presses at the top.

All were gassed. The chatter, mighty at the start, dwindled to nothing in the middle. We made it back to the flag for a 1 minute plank. 6th man Dig Em told of his love for his kids and a desire to be the best dad possible. We ended with prayers for Sgt. Slaughter’s wife, Nesquik’s dad and YHC’s friend Bryan.

Observations: Speaking of Dig Em, he really started out fast and we theorized that he needed a good pipe cleaning, which would explain his seemingly boundless vim/vigor. He didn’t deny it. Nessy was extra crusty today and seriously threatened to leave in the middle of BD1. Saluki remembered fondly his last time at the Forge, when lightening scared him off. Several others seemed to feel the King’s presence but were unable to articulate its essence or impact.

Nobody wanted to let the King down and risk, upon return, him giving the day-long silent treatment or, worse, a profanity-laced tirade about finally living up to ones potential. So, everybody worked their asses off.  And because everybody did their best, the spirit of the King eventually left contented.

And the PAX had no further intercourse with the spirit, having worked out mightily; and it will always be said of them, that they knew how to hoist kettle bells well, if any men alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us!