In elementary school, my best friend and I would run home at the end of the day to catch whatever was remaining of the latest episode of General Hospital. (Funny thing is, I moved near the actual hospital featured in the opening sequence. I’m often brought back in time when I see it.) First, it was the Luke and Laura saga, then it was Dr. Noah Drake, played by Rick Springfield, then Blackie Parrish, played by John Stamos.

But it was Rick Springfield that had the greatest pull on me. I already loved his music and thought he was so dreamy, as evidenced by the posters plastered on my walls. So when one of my college friends put out the call to see him in concert, it was an easy YES. The universe was on our side because right after the text from my friend, I got an email for a 30% discount on tickets.

It was a beautiful evening at the Hollywood Bowl, as usual. We enjoyed a potluck picnic with far too much food before it was time for the show. After dancing our way through the first three acts, it was finally time for Rick Springfield to take the stage. As soon as he walked out, I found myself screaming like a tweenager even though the former soap star is now 75, almost 76, years old. It may have been four decades late, but finally—a dream come true!