…I blundered at the Thunder Down Under show. 
Friends Renae Kinsey and Bill Francis took me to see this wild male-stripper show at the Excalibur in Vegas. These guys (the performers, not Bill and Renae) are kids, really, albeit very athletic and well-built ones, and since they’re Aussie’s, they have that dry and rather irreverent sense of humor. And do they ever strip.
So, okay, I really was minding my own business, bundled in my fake fur coat with the light-up Santa Claus pin, being a sport and ever so grateful that the room was essentially dark and absolutely packed with screaming females who wanted nothing so much as to get up on stage and make a fool of themselves. Me, I was keeping a low profile.
Well, here’s what happened next. The MC was frolicking around in the audience, looking for victims, and I made the mistake of yawning.
Even then, I thought I was safe. I mean, it was dark, and all the rest, and he spots little ole low-profile me?
Of course he did, because that is God’s sense of humor. The MC pointed at me, I was bathed in light, and then he demanded good-naturedly, “Did you just yawn?!”
Gulp.
Well, yeah, but I didn’t mean anything by it.
Honest.
Long story short, the only romance writer in the audience gets hauled up on stage, and that was when the fun really started. (For the audience.) I was a sport and I played along, and the funny thing is, all the while this young MC was gyrating for the crowd, he was saying the most gentlemanly things to me, sotto voce. Like, “Relax” and, as he was helping me down from the stage, at which time I was completely blinded by lights and practically deafened by the delight of the audience, “I’ve got you, love.”
What a show. My friends will probably never let me forget the experience. Thank GOD no cameras were allowed!
My take on Thunder Down Under? It’s truly worth seeing–there’s a reason these guys have been on every big-time network TV show. They’re gifted athletes, they’re dancers, and they’re charming Aussies. Above all, though, they are showmen.
We took in the Titanic exhibit at the Luxor, and that was a little more my speed. The exhibit will be in Vegas for a while–another nine years, I think–so do see it if you get the chance. I was near tears the whole time, looking at people’s belongings, miraculously retrieved from the site where the great ship settled–some 2.5 miles below the surface. They had an actual iceberg in the exhibit, which was touchable, and gave one a chilling (no pun intended) idea of just how cold the North Atlantic would have been that fateful April night in 1912. I felt sad, as I’ve mentioned already, but I wouldn’t have missed that experience for anything.
Now, for last week’s winners! NO, I did not forget. They are Eileen Kolick and Lynne W, and they will each receive a $50 giftcard from either Barnes and Noble or Amazon, along with a signed book by moi. And the contest isn’t over, so be sure to comment, comment, comment!
More adventures in Vegas later.
Comment
Wish I could have seen that .Hope you and your friends are having fun
Comment
wow…sounds like a blast!!!
Comment
So jealous you got to see thunder from down under!!!!
Comment
The show is good! Chippendales is classic…if you go to either one… make sure you get a table near the stage…or you won’t enjoy the show as much.
Comment
I’ve been to see the Thunder down under revue and the guys are great! It was a lot of fun!! As to the Titanic exhibit, I hope to make it to Vegas to see it next year, as you are an empath, I’m not surprised that you were saddened by the exhibit. I know that when I go I’ll have to take a few crystals with me or I’ll end up sobbing my way thru the exhibit.
Have a good trip home and a Merry Christmas.
Comment
I loved hearing about your visit with the Aussies!
We were at Cirque and my poor husband just knew he would end up on stage. Luckily he didn’t. I think he would have had a heart attack!
Comment
It was CLASSIC….when asked if you were yawning you said, “No.. I was faking it”….I couldn’t be so witty.. You are the cutest person ever and we truly enjoyed ourselves!!!
The Titanic exhibit was one unforgettable experience. Bill and I did that in Vegas and also in St. Petersburg.
Get some rest and get all the new rocks organized! Lol!
I had a wonderful Time at the luncheon. Looking forward to my Richard Petty driving experience.
Love you
Comment
What a fun story! Thank you so much for the smile. A rough day made brighter by your charm and wit. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Comment
I would love to see a” Thunder Down Under Show “. Sounds like you and your friends are having a wonderful time.
Ruby
Comment
I’ve never been to Las Vegas, I hope I get to some day. I have seen a Titanic exhibit, a smaller one that I’m sure is in Vegas and it really made me think. I got a boarding pass with a real person’s name on it and at the end of the exhibit, I got to look up this person’s name to see if he made it off of the ship. He did. I am glad that you had a great time in Las Vegas. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Comment
Would love to have been there to see “your” show with “Thunder”. It would be my worst nightmare to have somethin like that happen. Glad you could ‘enjoy’ it and share the experience with us! Love your posts!!
Comment
Thank you!
Comment
I saw Thunder Down Under while in Vegas. When I went they drew a seat number..well mine was drawn. I was really embarrassed at first then I was like will never see these people again go with it and have fun. We had a blast glad that we went.
Comment
Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!!
Comment
It sounds like you are having a wonderful time in Vegas! I would love to see the Titanic exhibit (might enjoy the Thunder Down Under show too!). Have a happy and healthy holiday season!
Comment
You had me smiling through this entire post. I so hope that your adventure finds its way into a book.
Comment
Oh how hilarious that show must have been, starting with your yawn
Comment
Lol I wish i could have been there to see you with
those strippers!
Comment
I loved your story about Thunder Down Under! I would love to see something like that. My friends were supposed to take me to a male strip club back almost 34 years ago for a bachelorette party but ended up giving me a surprise bridal shower instead! Talk about embarrassed when I walked in with a bag and found my mother, my future mother-in-law and both future grandmothers-in-law sitting there with my friends. Your experience could not have been more embarrassing than mine, since you were with friends! Love your books and can’t wait for the next one!
Comment
I may be dumber than dirt, and I’ve never been to a strip show, but, I have to ask…What did you have in that bag that embarrased you so becasue your mom and future in-laws were there?
Comment
Yes I’d also like to know what was in the bag??!
You peaked my curiosity!!!
Comment
Sounds like a blast! Great way for a bunch of girlfriends to spend time in Vegas.
Comment
Pam it sounds like as good of an excuse to go to Vegas. Plus, it’s always a good time to go the Gatlinberg, TN if you ski. The Pigeon Forge Exhit. is in the area.
Comment
Man some prople have All the luck. lol
Comment
man some people have All the luck.roflmao.
Comment
Linda, all I can say is…Better you than me. I would have been mortified to be chosen, and even more mortified trying to keep from being dragged to the stage and…they would have had to drag me.
Comment
I am would have to been drug kicking and crying. Loved your story though Linda as long as it wasn’t me.
Comment
It seems I am pretty unsuccessful about sending comments. Every time I attempt to send one I get a message saying that I said that before. I know I am redundant, but always try to be creative so I can draw attention to my comments, hoping to catch your eye as you say you read them.
I do not understand how your contests work. Can that be explained to me?
Once again I love your books, especially the ones named for the old western 1880’s characters.
Comment
Well, this one got posted.
I choose the winners at random., kind of a name-out-of-a-hat type thing.
Comment
OMG my face would have been beet red but I’m sure the sexy accent would have helped me cope!!
Merry Christmas!
Comment
What a wonderful story! I shared it with my husband (he accidentally introduced me to your books, so he knows your name very well). We both had a much needed laugh. Thank you again for sharing the fun!
Comment
That is some story. I am sure you had fun lol. I am looking forward to your book coming out at the end of the month.
Comment
Reminds me of years ago when 4 friends and I went to Dallas for a getaway weekend. WE WERE GOING TO THE COWBOY CLUB. ( MALE STRIP CLUB ) We got all the way to the door and chickened out.
It was still fun! Bet it was for you too!
Comment
I have also been to a male strip show. My friends took me for my bacheloret party many years back. It was great fun. I mainly loved watching my friends make total fools of themselves.
We almost got kicked out because one got a little (lot) carried away. I would love to see the Titanic exhibit. We have one in Branson, MO but haven’t made it yet. Enjoy the rest of your trip. Be good and avoid those naughty strippers. 
Comment
Sounds like you had a blast but let me ask you this. Just how many shades of red did your face turn?
If it had been me I would have died right there on the spot. So glad you had fun.
Merry Chrostmas and a very Happy New Year.
Comment
At least thirteen shades.
Comment
I laughed and laughed about your trip to see the “Thunder from Down Under”! What a “hoot”. Would loved to have seen that!
We were to go to NFR this year, but sickness stopped that. Maybe next year. Now we have a sick relative, that is not expected to make it. God has a plan.
Stay well and as always, enjoy your blog!………………….
Comment
Hello Linda: It’s great thet you are having fun.
Comment
Hello Linda: It’s great that you are having fun.
My daughter got caught like you. Only she scratched her nose. She was so embarassed but the guy was really kind. 
These are professional men, so they know how to relax a nervous person. Hope the rest of the trip goes well.
Jeannette
Comment
Sounds as if fun was had by all. I went to see the Men Of Las Vegas a few years ago. They were awesome. To bad cameras weren’t allowed. Would have loved to have seen the fun.
Comment
How awesome to be a part of The Thunder Down Under show!! Who would think a yawn would be the surprise factor! Nice too, to know they are a great group of gentlemen especially in that line of work. So glad you are enjoying Vegas too!
Comment
So glad you are enjoying Vegas. I have not been there in about 20 years. I know it has changed and there is alot more there.
Take care going home. Merry Christmas.
Comment
That’s hilarious! I think that’s the beginning of a romance novel! I think I would have died right on the spot! : )
Comment
I’ll be watching for a mention of a male stripper show in one of your books!
Comment
We seem to have some of the same experiences. I, too had an experience at a stripper show. Several years ago I met this guy when we were out one night. I gave him my phone number but didn’t hear from him that week. The next weekend I went to a Male Strip show for a bachlorette party. I’m sitting there right in the front row and here he came, down the runway. He came over to talk to me afterward and asked me out. I just couldn’t see going out with him.
I went to the Titanic exhibit in Pigeon Forge, TN. I agree that it is a MUST SEE. We were fortunate to see the violin and satchel that the Band leader had with him when they found him. It was only on exhibit for a short time and has since been auctioned off. I would like to see it stay with the exhibit. Did you get a boarding pass as you entered? It really got you involved. We felt like we were actually those people for awhile. I went into the children’s room and was looking at the photos and I was so excited when I found their photos I said “look here are my children”. Everyone seemed to be the same way. And the cool bridge of the ship with the iceberg! I’m glad you had the chance to experience that.
Comment
We did get boarding passes. My passenger survived, but she sure had an unhappy life afterward. Plus, she lost her little dog when the ship sank. That would KILL me.
Comment
Loved the Thunder Down Under story! Ha! Been to Vegas many times but haven’t seen this show. I have seen the Titanic exhibit. It is very moving.
Comment
Remember–what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas–except for whatever you tell us!! Glad you had a good time, I love Vegas for a quick getaway.
Comment
I couldn’t help but laugh at you being pulled on stage. Sounds like it was fun though! What an exciting time!
I have always been interested in the Titanic. Such a terrible tragedy. I would love to see an exhibit like that. Hope you have a wonderful week!
Comment
Wish I could’ve worked that show into our Vegas trip. Missed out on the Titantic, too. But did see LeReve and absolutely loved it.
Comment
I live in Vegas and would love to meet you! I’m a special education teacher and almost on break, maybe I will see you this weekend.
Enjoy and have a fabulous time.
Comment
Seems like you had a good time ! Never be low profile when you don’t want attention ! Lol
Comment
Sounds like your having fun! Good for you.
Blessings.
Comment
Oh My Goodness! I would have died right then and there!!! But of course someone would have to get me in the door in the first place!!!!!!!! Have never been to a show like that! Have been to Vegas years ago and imagined it has changed tremendously!! Thanks so being so forthright and sharing even the embarrassing stuff!!!!!!!! Merry Christmas to everyone!!!
Comment
Well those who try to hide in the dark always come alive when the light shines upon them. The following rule might apply. My girlfriend and I are not allowed to oogle men younger than our sons. (I suppose it is a tough rule to follow if you do not have children…..:-)
Comment
Glad you had a good time. Everyone should experience Vegas at least once, it’s not only gambling! Merry Christmas!
Comment
Oh my goodness! You are so lucky! I’ve always wanted to go to Thunder Down Under but I’m I would be mortified if I ever got called up on stage! Well done, my dear, well done!
Comment
Some girls have all the luck! Thanks for sharing.
Comment
I’ve always wanted to go to a male strip show — wanted to see the movie Magic Mike, too, but haven’t gotten to do either. Think I’d want to be in the shadows tho, as I’d probably be a bit embarrassed.
Several, like a lot, years ago, there was a Titanic display in OKC and we went to see it. I remember I was amazed at what had been recovered.
Comment
You had me at Magic Mike!!! Haha
It’s a “cute” movie filmed in my home town area.
If you want to see great dance
Moves you must see this guy Tatum.
Better moves than the Thunder from Down Under!
Only not enough dancing in the movie!!
Thunder from down Under is a Las Vegas show production not a strip joint. Strip joints (yucky) haha. Okay so now go rent Majic Mike and report back to us!!’ Xox
Comment
Sounds like your having a great time in Vegas! Safe travels home and Merry Christmas blessings to you and your family.
Comment
I think I would have died of embarrassment to be hauled up on stage at that show! Sitting and quietly watching is one thing, but to be up front? I don’t think so!
However, it sounds like you had a blast, good for you!
Comment
Comment
Thanks for the smile…that would probably have been me yawning!!! I’m glad you’re having a good time.
Comment
I just don’t think I could sit quietly in the audience of a show of male strippers. First off I would be glowing at 20 million watts, from embarrassment, my eyes would be so wide open I would look like a very large raccoon, and my mouth would be on my knees, from the shock of it all. But then again I might be just drooling out the side of my mouth. I am old but not quite dead yet. I would really like to see the Titanic exhibit, my Mom was ten years old and remembered all the news about it. So glad you had a great time and so enjoyed you post, thanks for the laughs.
Comment
Wow…sounds like you had a once in a lifetime experience, Linda!
I have never been to a strip joint…maybe I am missing something?
Comment
It’s not a strip joint it’s a Las Vegas show production!! lol!
Comment
True! I didn’t mean to give the impression it was a strip joint–these performers are professional to the max!
Comment
A family in my home town had a connection to the Titanic. Their grandmother was a survivor! Thanks for the years of great writing that I’ve enjoyed!
Comment
Glad that you had a great trip. I look forward to reading your blogs everyday. They are always so funny and interesting. I have never been to Vegas but it is on my “bucket list”.
Comment
I have seen Thunder from down under and they are FABULOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Glad you were able to fully enjoy their attributes and fun.
Comment
Wish J could of been there to see you on stage, sounds like a good time! Hope you have a very MerryvChristmas!
Comment
LOL! Funny story; my eyes were watering from laughing! Can’t wait to hear more of your Vegas adventures. And I for one would love to see your “Little Joe” portrait. Hoss and Little Joe were my favorites. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas.
Comment
Sounds like a first hand book experience to me. Glad your having a good time! As always thanks for sharing!
Comment
sorry but had to LOL at the thought of you being on stage – would have been “just my luck” as well – so glad that it went well and is not being publicly displayed all over the internet!!
Comment
My children went to the Titanic exhibit when it was in Cincinnati. I’m sorry I missed. Maybe it’s a reason to go to Vegas? I’m glad you had fun!
Comment
I saw the Titanic exhibit last summer in Grand Rapids Mi, It was so somber, but very educational also.
Comment
What a good time and a great story!
Comment
Sound like you are having a good time. I once was ask to help a magician. He put me in a box to saw me in half. Very neat.
and a little embarrassed. 
Comment
i love to heat about your adventures. Last year my sister offered to get me a stripper for my birthday. I declined.
Comment
Smart lady. I got one for my birthday once, and it was so embarrassing. My mother and daughter were traumatized.
Comment
Glad your stripper experience was less expensive than mine. Had a girls night out at a male strip show. It was great, awesome actually, but don’t remember much of it. I was drinking Tequila Sunrises and THOUGHT I only had 3, but I didn’t know the “friend” next to me was pouring her drinks in my glass and another friend bought me like two more. All told I don’t know how many drinks I had. I was SO drunk I lost my Mother’s ring that my oldest son had got me for Christmas AND had to call him to come get me! Embarrassed much! He thought the whole thing was hilarious! ME, not so much!
Comment
Wish I would of seen you with the stripper, and seen your face…I was put on the spot like that at a friend’s 50th birthday party, we all went to see the Chippendale dancers and what a night that was. Congrats to the 2 winners, wish I could win so I could get a few books that I want to read. Merry Christmas and have a wonderful holiday with your family and friends!
Comment
Too funny! I went to a Chippendale show while in college. Was so focused on watching the audience going crazy and laughing at a particularly enthusiastic woman that one of the dancers came over and yelled at me.
Comment
Linda, sounds like you are having a blast. I hope the rest of your time in Lost Wages is great.
Congratulates to Spleen K. and Lynne W.
Blessings to everyone.
As always your friend,
Norma
Comment
Have been to Vegas several times but haven’t seen this show yet — hubby won’t sit through it (now if it were females…). Many good shows there. Have heard the the pirates will be leaving Treasure Island tho, that’s such a fun show and it’s free. Oh well, there’s always the Bellagio fountains!
Comment
Loved thunder from down under.My daughter worked in Las Vegas. Her sister an my self went to a visit the lovely man stood on the table right in front of me pouted eater on himself shook it on me then jumped down and hugged and kissed me, my daughters thought it was great. So glad my one daughter is now home and works in cage at our own Northern Quest Casino with her dad who also works there. Thanks for the memories.
Comment
I would love to see the Titanic exhibit! I can only imagine the feeling that comes over you as you view the exhibit and imagine what they went through.
Comment
I love that you were the one picked to get up on stage with the Aussies! Something tells me this may end up in someone’s romance novels down the road …. Hope you have a wonderful Christmas.
Comment
Enjoy your stories, the ones you live and the ones from your imagination.