I remember staying up late, way later than my parents would allow, just to catch a glimpse of Showtime at the Apollo. I couldn’t wait until the end of each performance to add my vote via cheering (or booing). I loved everything about the show and I’ve always wanted to attend a live taping and rub the famous “Tree of Hope” log. Lucky for me, with last month’s Grammys being back in New York for the first time since 2003, the legendary Apollo Theater held a luncheon to celebrate its history and honor all of the icons that have graced its stage, and I was front and center on the red carpet.

Since the event kicked off early, with it being a luncheon and all, I was worried that a lot of celebrities wouldn’t grace the carpet for that reason. But I was wrong. Attendees included Dapper Dan, Grammy-nominated singer Elle Varner, Rotimi, five-time Grammy-nominated rapper Fat Joe and more.

Upon heading into the theater, the first thing I saw as I walked to the stage was the lucky log. At that moment my childhood dreams came true. I reached out my hand and gave the “Tree of Hope” a good, strong rub and instantly felt the power.

As if the afternoon couldn’t get any better, the lunch that was provided was a Harlem-inspired serving of chicken and waffles, one of my favorites. But my luck wasn’t what I had hoped; by the time it was my turn to receive a gift bag, they all were gone. Not sure exactly what was in them, but at least I left with smile on my face and memories of an afternoon spent at “Showtime at the Apollo.” Checks it off my bucket list.