This is nuts! *graphic content*

*Warning- if you happen to be eating at the moment or are an animal rights activist the post below may bother you*

I'm all about new experiences and boy was today one! I was invited by a co-worker, Michelle, to come out to her family's ranch for a calf branding day. In the spirit of adventure of course I said yes. Today three different families came together to get the job done. Branding is important so that no one can steal other people's cows. The brand is required when the cow gets sold to prove it belongs to the person selling the cow. So here's how it's done:

The branding irons heat up over hot coals.

The poor babies await their fate.

The momma cows are pissed that someone took their babies away and are quite vocal about it. #mooooooo

Two people wrestle a calf to the ground, then several other people run over and brand the calf, inject antibiotics (which make them fatter), and if they are unfortunate enough to be a baby boy cow....well it's an especially bad day.

"Rocky Mountain Oysters" can be enjoyed right off the branding iron coals or saved and prepared for later. No, I did not try them.  #eeeewwwwww

When the work is done everyone gathers for a big potluck meal. Branding days are big social events that bring the whole family together a few times a year.

After the traumatizing part of the day was over, my friend Stacey and I took a tour of the farm:

It was a very educational experience, but I sure am glad I'm not a cow!