National Day of the Horse – Meet Mocha!

December 13 is National Day of the Horse! It is a special day dedicated to celebrating all things related to horses – including the joy that they bring to our lives! With so many ways to celebrate, we thought we should interview one of Camp Sycamore Hills’ lovely horses to find out a few of his favorite things.

Let’s meet Mocha, who has been part of our Girl Scout family for 22 years!

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GSMIDTN: Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Mocha: Well, I am around 35 years old. I feel that’s important to keep in mind, because a lot of people think, because of my size, that I’m a baby. I’ve taught too many young Girl Scouts how to ride and groom a horse to be mistaken for a whippersnapper. Getting to teach those girls and being the first horse that many girls ever meet gives me a lot of pride. It’s very serious work being an honest, unshakable, reliable pony like myself, but somebody has to do it. Bonnie also encourages me to be the best me that I can be. I don’t get away with too many shenanigans when she’s around.

GSMIDTN: So is Bonnie your best friend?

Mocha: She sure is! I was here first, but she came shortly after. We started the “Pony Brigade” almost 14 years ago together and have been inseparable ever since. Now, we do have a “new” best friend. Snuffles has been here for four years, and despite her being four times bigger than us, she’s an honorary member of the Pony Brigade. It’s kind of nice having such a tall friend around. She is very helpful in making sure that we get some of the best grazing areas, and makes sure the youngsters don’t get too rambunctious near us!

GSMIDTN: What brings you joy?

Mocha: Now that’s a hard one. When I’m out to pasture not working, I love to nap. Finding that perfect spot with just enough sun to not get hot and just enough grass that I can grab a few mouthfuls between dozing, that’s my perfect afternoon. When I am on the clock though, I love to be groomed. The girls do such a great job getting my coat clean and shiny! I love the individual attention and feel so fancy when they braid my mane and tail.

GSMIDTN: Do you have a favorite memory?

Mocha: When you’ve been around as long as I have, it’s really hard to choose one memory. I’ve been in parades, visited the Girl Scout Council many times, read Brownie bedtime stories, participated in spa nights, and dressed up in all kinds of crazy outfits. I’ve worn wings, horns, wigs, dresses, pants, shirts, and shoes. You name it, and there’s a good chance someone has a picture of me wearing it. There was one time I dressed up as a space llama to help make announcements during campfire one summer at Camp Sycamore Hills. In my younger years, I was a bit of an escape artist. I could open stalls, untie knots, and even take my riding gear off! While it was fun causing mischief like that, now I try to be a better role model for the younger horses.

GSMIDTN: I remember that! You would always prance a little more at the trot and tucked your legs extra tight over the fence when you had a crowd cheering for you. Well, I think we are running out of time. Is there anything else you would like for everyone to know?

Mocha: No matter your size or your age, stay spunky Girl Scouts!