BETHEL - Linda Amell is living her dream.

The accomplished equestrian and owner of North Stone Farm is such a natural at teaching and starting quality horses and ponies, she doesn't consider it a job.

"Sometimes I can't believe I get paid for doing this because I enjoy it so much. You know you love what you're doing when you work 60+ hours a week and can't wait to get up and feed the horses," Linda says.

North Stone Farm services equestrian riders of all ages, levels and disciplines, and specializes in hunter, jumper and equitation riding. North Stone also offers horse boarding and leasing. The stable has 29 box stalls, a heated tack room with lockers. There is a state-of-the-art mega dome, large paddocks and so much more.

"The highlight is seeing my riders reach their goals," adds Linda, who has literally taught thousands of people, some looking to ride for pleasure, some to compete provincially and nationally and others to realize championship dreams.

"It's a great place to come and ride. We're a family," says student Olivia Darling. She appreciates the warm, friendly atmosphere that Linda has created at the stable. North Stone riders range in age from 2 to 80, and Linda finds it very rewarding to see people enjoying time there. "You can be any age," she says.

While Linda has been a riding instructor and trainer most of her life, it wasn't until 2009 when she decided to open her own stable. Prior to that, she first studied and then worked side by side with internationally-known equestrian Eve Mainwaring, of Brockville's St. Alban's Stables. They worked together for decades.

"Her position in the saddle is enviable," says Eve of Linda's riding skills. "Her big strength is finding good ponies and bringing them along as well as starting young riders, including qualifying many for 'A' shows and The Royal."

Olympic Silver Medalist and two-time Show Jumping World Cup winner Ian Millar, also a friend, once asked Linda to come work with him but she gracefully declined. She wanted to stay in this area.

"I've taught all levels, from kids to professionals, up to the Grand Prix level," she says. To her credit, Linda has qualified riders for the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Horse Show for 24 consecutive years - an outstanding achievement.

"I've loved it all," she says. Linda has worked with more than 500 horses and ponies. She takes great pride when people notice the horses she has started / trained as well as her riders.

"Do what you love - it makes life so much easier," says Linda. "I've loved horses and riding all of my life. I truly believe in teaching it forward."

Learn more on North Stone's website and Facebook page, call 613-213-8500 or email Linda for more information. North Stone Farm is located at 3951 County Road 26 in Elizabethtown-Kitley Township.