As a little girl, helping my dad with the yard work was a common practice. (Well, I wasn't really helping, but I was definitely moving things around and piling things up.) He would mow the yard or weed the flower beds, and I would grab the scraps or run inside for a glass of water. During the summer, that was our routine. We were outside from sunrise to sunset. I was a six-year-old girl who worshiped her dad. I still do. However, these days were never complete without a trip to our favorite place: United Dairy Farmers.

My dad would pack the tools and machines away for the day, and I would happily wait in the car for him to finish. Soon after, we would head to UDF. Chocolate malts were (and still are) our drink of choice. Actually, we ordered large/giant chocolate malts with extra malt powder. If the parlor worker was skilled, the ice cream would be so thick with malt powder that our jaws would ache while drinking. For a brown-eyed girl and her dad, that simple drink stands as a sweet and meaningful memory. Even at 19, my dad and I still make a point to get our special treat at some point during the summer.

Sadly, unless you live in Northern Kentucky, Indiana or Ohio, you haven't experienced the beauty of the UDF chain.

Founded by Carl H. Lindner Sr. in 1938, United Dairy Farmers began as a dairy-based store, offering basic products like ice cream and milk. Now with 210 locations, UDF has expanded to act as an ice cream parlor, gas station and convenience store.

For me and my friends, UDF has acted as host to post-dance cravings and late night excursions. With 24-hour service, we are able to get a treat any time of the day. Many smiles and laughs have rung and continue to ring within the walls of these stores. I truly feel sorry for individuals who have never experienced the atmosphere.

When I leave for college each semester, I often miss the common comforts of home. Goldstar Chili, Larosa's Pizza, Graeter's Ice Cream, and (of course) United Dairy Farmers are etched in my bones. As a native of the Greater Cincinnati area, I have noticed many clueless residents. They are unaware of our region's greatness. We bleed Cincy blood, whether we are aware or not.

So, United Dairy Farmers, I thank you. Honestly, I love you. Your establishment has managed to send me into adulthood with mountains of memories and life lessons. No matter where I land in life, Northern Kentucky is my home, and places like UDF are my rocks. Always cherish and remember your roots. That little girl or boy will be eternally grateful. I know my dad and I will forever cherish those moments.