Laura Anne Galbraith
‘How do you balance work and life?’ is probably the most recurring question I hear at work, which is ironic as I would expect more questions on science working as a scientist.
Some balance, not even a perfect one, between work, family and fun is possibly the biggest mystery of current times. To be honest, I don’t know the answer, but I do know someone who has mastered this art and more and is a real-life example of what we see in movies. I came across Laura Anne Galbraith, a mother, a horsewoman, a vet, a vet clinic owner and the owner and operator of Ever After Acres (a riding school), in October 2018. Since then, I have had countless lessons; about riding, life, struggle, success, and much more, from Laura and I truly believe that a part of my success comes at the hands of Laura. It is only fair to share her experience and wisdom with everyone out there in her own words but please indulge me a little while longer while I tell you a little about who Laura is.
Laura was born in New Brunswick to a lower middle-class family of teachers, far from stereotypical rich families with horses and stables. Although they had all they needed to live it was a challenge making ends meet and anything extra or extravagant like riding was out of question. Even though she did get lessons at Canadian Rothesay Pony Club with her then and forever coach Ally Sillers, it was a struggle for her family to continue her in that program. However, the determination of a 12-year-old Laura was such that she decided to help herself by working as much as she could at the barn on weekends and pay for her lessons. While many of us (adults) still have to learn Laura’s biggest teaching ‘Nothing worth doing is ever easy’, Laura was living by this even before her teenage years. In her own words ‘The life lesson that I was getting was that hard work pays off’. It doesn’t take long to realize that she was destined for greater things.
Soon after she realized that she wanted a different life than her parents and that she needed a plan to achieve those goals.This was not something out of the blue as she had already decided to be a veterinarian, and things were now coming together like puzzle pieces. Her journey to become a vet started at University of New Brunswick, moved to UPEI and finished 20 years ago at Atlantic Veterinary College. When I asked Laura about her career she said ‘I literally do not remember a time in my life when I did not know that is (being a vet) what I would do with my life’. Her story is that of patience, determination and resilience. Even though I still have the urge to tell her answers myself, I think it best to use her words and answers to some of the questions that I did ask her for this profile.
What does your typical day look like?
A typical day running a family, vet clinic and horse farm must look a bit like perpetual chaos to my friends. Thankfully, I have a lot more help with the farm now than in the beginning. I don't really think there is a typical day...my days are split between the farm, the clinic and managing getting kids to and from school, their job, and activities. My goal is to have time every day to ride or workout, but my other responsibilities often use up my personal time. Most days I am up at 5:30 a.m. and off duty at 9 p.m.
When did you first come across horses?
The first time I came across horses might have been as a small child going with my grandfather who was running a food stand at a horse show. The inside of the food stand was FULL of ribbons that riders had given him. l think I was mesmerized by the animals and the achievements of the horse and rider together.... I DEFINITELY wanted some of those ribbons!
When did you fall in love with horses?
The first time I fell in love with horses must have been in the first lesson I had on a horse. I have a strong affinity for animals and actually remember feeling so at home on the horse that I was talking to the horse as we went along. I remember this because I heard someone commenting on it as I rode past and was embarrassed. I got over that quickly enough.
Who is your favourite horse?
What are some of the sacrifices you make for horses?
The biggest sacrifice I make for horses I suppose is all my time and money and sometimes sleep.... but they are worth every bit and more with what they give back.
What is your advice to young riders and riders in general?
My advice for beginners, and riders in general is to remember that nothing worth doing is ever easy. It takes time and patience, especially with yourself, and to remember to reflect on what skills you had 6 months ago and celebrate progress instead of what might not have been achieved today.
Setbacks are hard. They are however a reality of our sport. Either from injury or starting from scratch with a new horse… We often have to take a step back and be patient. Being patient with ourselves is the hardest thing for me.
How do you feel about routine, that is seemingly difficult and some might say that it is a constant struggle?
Routine needs to be punctuated with interesting changes so we can stay fresh and interested
Is there anything you’d like us to know
I would like to add that it is the amazing people in my life who have supported and believed in me that have really made all of this possible. All of the community we have built around Ever After Acres makes this possible. Mark makes this possible every day by being my rock. It is NOT just about what I have achieved. It is about what we are all achieving together
I would really like to thank Laura for taking time to give us some answers on how she does what she does. I have always found learning in Laura’s words and I hope you did as well!