Each birthday in my family, we wake up between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. to hop into the car with music blasting. Our destination is always Northside Grill and our outfits are always pajamas. It isn’t a rarity to see one of us with crazy bed-head hair and weepy eyes, considering it’s arguably way too early for us to look human. Next, we greet the employees and take our usual booth in the corner. Years ago, we used to be able to fit in one booth comfortably, but now we’re all older and bigger, meaning we have to squeeze in. The booth provides a warm atmosphere and many memories come flooding back to our brains.

I recall seeing my little sister eat seven sausages in one sitting when turning 7 years old. It was definitely a sight, especially since she had little teeth. Another favorite memory is when my little brother got locked in the bathroom and my mom had to help him out. Or when I had French toast from Northside Grill for the first time and my life was altered in so many ways.

Our next step on the agenda is ordering a variety of plates, including a stacked plate of pancakes. Freshly squeezed orange juice is then ordered for whoever’s birthday it may be and, of course, we ask for the birthday hat.

The waiter comes over and my parents ask for their regular coffee. Our usual waiter has been working there for what seems like forever and is so, so funny. My family and I chat with her and we all catch up on our lives. She reciprocates and then gives our order to the cooks.