That bit about half the group planning a visit just to check is wild. It reminds me of my cousin who spent a whole vacation in Greece trying to find a specific taverna from a novel, only to learn the author made the place up. Some people take their book research very, very seriously.

Have you tried the elbow trick on vertical surfaces too? I used to think grip was everything until I focused on where my arm made contact. Letting my elbow anchor changed how much my wrist would shake, especially with softer brushes. Now I reach for a basic round sable brush more than anything because the control is finally there. That click you mentioned really is the best part, when the line just does what you want.

Had a friend swear her jade was reaching for light too. She finally figured out she was watering it way too often, which made it grow all weak and stretched out. Might be worth checking your watering schedule.

I've learned to ALWAYS check the cables before assuming it's haunted.