Maybe I can help slow the enthusiasm for malabar spinach . . .
Lori, I probably live and garden in a similar climate to yours AND I grew malabar spinach last year and 3 or 4 times previously. Yes, it can be a vigorous vine HOWEVER it needs pampering in places with cool night-time temperatures and short seasons.
I start it in a heated greenhouse in March, transplant it into a plastic tunnel in May, and keep the plastic on the tunnel until the end of June.
I think it is much more suitable for more casual outdoor growing in South Carolina and Texas.
I don't grow a vine on the chook's pen but if I did I'd probably go for a squash or pumpkin vine. There's even a gourd that is closely related to buttercup squash that should be suitable: Turks Turban.
Just an idea and some experience to share . . .
Steve