Ice cream is over 4,000 years old and originates in Ancient China.
Early versions of the snack were made by mixing snow with honey and fruit.
Local Ice Cream in Herndon
Many Gabriel Homes residents who toured the MooThru in Herndon enjoyed the ancient treat. Founded in Northern Virginia, MooThru parlors are known for their local ice cream being hand-crafted and slow churned.
“We mainly serve the Herndon and Reston communities, but we do spirit days and fundraisers across Northern Virginia because we love giving back,” said Frank Kenney, manager of MooThru Herndon. “I feel phenomenal when I see adults like the residents come in and have their special treats because they love them so much.”
MooThru's mascot is a fan favorite for one resident.
The ice cream shop uses a cow as its mascot to connect a playful spirit to the farm-fresh dairy. Cows strike a chord for Shelby, who says they’re her favorite animal. Several years ago, Gabriel Homes took Shelby and other residents on a trip to Wisconsin, a state that has more than 3 million cows and produces over 25 billion gallons of milk each year. Shelby talks about Wisconsin to this day and holds cow-themed birthday parties with her friends.
MooThru staff gave residents a tour of the store.
Residents saw the different types of ice cream and how they’re served, from cups and cones to soft and hard serve. Shelby and two residents, January and Kari, were enchanted by all the different toppings.
An Assortment of Flavors
Caryn went for the classic mint chocolate chip, and Patrick toasted his raspberry sherbet with Chris, who enjoyed chocolate. John G. ordered a unique flavor of the bunch, blackberry ice cream. Meanwhile, Sara went for the famous ice cream sundae.
“My favorite type of sundae is the brownie sundae,” Sara said. “Brownies are delicious treats in ice cream because they’re another way to enjoy chocolate.”
With almost 20 residents in attendance, the MooThru ice cream social left sweet memories in everyone’s minds.
Many residents caught up with close friends from other homes and compared their ice creams. The evening wrapped up with smiles and stories as everyone headed toward their rides home.