My daughter has been a student at Equestrian Arts Institute for just over 6 months. She is 10 years old and has always loved horses. She asked for lessons last year for her birthday and my husband and I decided she was old enough and resposnible enough, so we started the research into finding a good riding stable. \r
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I came across EAI here on citysearch. I called them before reading the reviews (thankfully, because I don't know if it would have called after reading the reviews). My first call was received by Amy (Emma's instructor) who was very helpful and friendly on the phone. She invited us to come visit and observe a lesson. We set-up an appointment. After the phone call, I had misplaced the phone number so got back onto citysearch and it was then that I read the reviews. I was so stunned, as it just didn't match up with the impression I got over the phone. \r
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I decided to follow through with the appointment just to see what this EAI was all about (now I was skeptical). When we arrived at EAI at our appointed time we were greeted by Amy who showed us around and then took us to one of the arenas where Toney (owner) was giving a lesson. The lesson was with 3 teenagers that were jumping various scary looking jumps. What I noticed most about Toney's teaching style was that the whole class was having fun, but also accomplishing some pretty terrific feats (at least to my novice eyes). \r
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After that lesson was over, Amy moved on to a lesson with 3 young riders (probably 6-9 in age). Her demeanor with these younger kids was very soft and caring. I was so impressed with not only Amy's teaching style, but the way the kids responded, I was hooked. I could see a immediate future with Amy and a long term future with Toney for Emma's riding career. I don't know who was more excited, me or Emma!\r
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Now, 6 months later, both Emma and I are very happy at EAI. We love all the staff and the horses. Emma has had some near falls and some fearful moments, but Amy and Toney are always there to help her through them. We are so happy to be apart of the EAI family!\r
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