Well, guys, it apparently was the thermostat. I replaced it, took Daemon out on the highway and hit it hard (for us) and the temp guage needle stayed right in the middle like old times.

I knew the thermostat could have been the problem, but sometimes I tend to overanalyze symptoms -- you pushed me into going ahead and doing it, so thanks again!

 

No Problem!

 

While your under the hood go ahead and check your hoses to see if they have swelled from it overheating. You should be ok, but just check as a precaution.