Up close with Rod

Rod’s Caesar’s Palace Las Vegas show on October, 13, 2021 was my 32nd Anniversary gift from my husband Tommy.  After all these years, there was no longer a need for gifts such as jewelry, clothing or more chrome for my motorcycles.  I no longer desired anything other than to travel and see Rod in concert here and there.  In all reality, my husband has been gifting me with Rod since day one as shortly after we married, I gave up my job in Law Enforcement and became a full-time Mom and Housewife.  Without my darling hubby, I would not have had the opportunities to travel throughout the U.S. to attend Rod’s concerts and pay whatever necessary to be up close to the stage.

So the evening began with going through security.  I explained that I had a special gift for Mr. Stewart and proceeded to show the item to the fellow.  He was not sure so he brought over a supervisor to verify.  Unfortunately, I could not bring the gift in to give Rod.  I will be taking a trip to the post office this week to mail this special gift to Rod (Actually it is for Penny).  The best part of the gift was to see Rod’s reaction more than anything…..maybe, just maybe he’ll let me know his thoughts!

Prior to the show once at our seats, I met two ladies from Canada in the front row adorning their Celtic apparel.  I also recognized fellow SMILER member and super fantastic photographer Ruth Ha who graciously took a photo with me.  The auditorium was filling up at that point and you could feel the excitement in the air.

The show began with INFATUATION.  Rod and his beautiful girls were dressed in his (and mine) favorite Leopard.  I knew he changes outfits a few times throughout his performances so I snapped away taking pics while I had the chance.  From there, Rod and the band sang WE’RE HAVING A PARTY, SOME GUYS HAVE ALL THE LUCK, IT TAKES TWO, TONIGHT’S THE NIGHT, RYTHEM OF MY HEART,  MAGGIE MAY and many more great hits.

About halfway through Rod’s show I brought out his autobiography which I have yet to get him to sign.  I’ve had many opportunities in doing so over the years beginning when he was signing his new book upon release in Manhattan.  One of my biggest regrets ever was not getting on a train that day which would have been memorable.  Another missed opportunity was a few years ago in Vegas when Rod came over to sign the book, attempted to sign but I foolishly left the top on the marker and he shot me quite the look and walked away.  This time my marker was ready but I just couldn’t get his attention.  Hopefully next time, three’s the charm.

After the third change of outfits I realized I had better try and give him a scarf I had brought him.  We all know how Rod loves his scarves and this was pretty special.  I’m getting antsy by now knowing that the end of the show was quickly approaching.  I could not get his attention to take it from me.  I finally throw it up on the stage at which point the curtain starts to come down.  I turn to talk to my husband a second and look back at the stage and the scarf is gone.  I ask the woman to my left if she saw where it went and she told me the woman behind her had it.  I turn around, grabbed the scarf from the woman without letting the New York come out of me.

Rod’s encore was SWEET LITTLE ROCK N ROLLER.  The night went by too fast.  The band was great as usual.  The lovely ladies singing, dancing and playing their instruments were totally amazing.  As for Rod, he still has it going on.  Handsome as always, never misses a beat and his voice as wonderful as ever.  The man never disappoints!  I will make a mental note to wear something that will definitely get his attention next May and get my book signed once and for all!

Review By Madelyn LaRosa

All photos thanks to Madelyn LaRosa