Branding

a little ranch work.

Branding

Smoke curling upward
Coals glowing brightly
Horses waiting work
Cinches drawn tightly

Cowboy’s spurs jingle
As they each take mount
Some to cut out calves
Others take the count

The Mesquite fire burns
Heating twisted steel
The kicking calf bawls
At the hot brand’s feel

The air’s aroma
Singed hair and burned hide
Every calf branded
Weary cowboy pride.