01/30/2022
Saja Riding Academy : Riding lessons and children have definitely been a major blessing to me over the years. With sadness, I must announce that this chapter of my life will close.
…. (This is a long post but there is so much to say) ….
Saja Riding Academy will no longer offer lessons to the precious, cherished children, young students and brave adults that have a love and desire to learn to ride and be with horses.
My prayer is that you will find a stable and instructor who will see your heart; encourage and challenge you to overcome fear; strive to do your best; appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the horse you ride; understand the privilege of finding friends and learning to become a blessing to all that cross your path at the stable you attend and in your life.
In 1990 a tornado turned our world upside down and from disaster came blessing. God and I had a chat where I said I would teach as long as we had horses / ponies and there where children who wanted to ride.
… (There are many new and old students still wanting to ride 😢🥺)….
Certifications and riding levels did not qualify me to teach but personal riding experience, love of children and the willingness to share the love of horses with others made Saja Riding Academy reality. Over time, certified instructors graced our doors.
The records must show that Lori Smith and her sweet daughter, Holy, are the ones who gave me courage and set everything in motion. In the beginning, their support, encouragement, hands on help, friendship, love along with the wisdom of God lead the way for Saja Riding Academy to touch the lives of hundreds of students. In time, one student - (Holy) - turned to as many as forty-three in one season. Riding camps, sleepovers, trail rides, pot-luck meals, riding adventures, fairs - especially the Meaford Fair - became reality. It would be unfair not to mention the kindness, organization and safe environment the Meaford fair and their organizers offered to Saja Riding Academy students and any one attending that fair. The fair became a yearly event (Lori and Holy were the motivators) and even though it was so much work, time and expense it was the highlight for the students. Special thanks need to be given to the Torrie family, who did 80% of the trucking to the fairs.
There are hundreds of people to thank. It is my prayer you know what a blessing and privilege it was to work with you all. It is impossible to mention you by name, as well, as it is impossible to mention each and every student who touched my life and rode at Saja Riding Academy . My heart is overflowing with memories of all who gave of their time, money, gifts, love, tears, laughter and compassion. Each and everyone of you has affected my life and have helped me to be the person I am today .
Tears flow.
My heart is overwhelmed because of all the love that has passed through it.
May our paths continue to cross.
Hugs to you all.
❣️Linda,
(owner and instructor of Saja Riding Academy)
