Branding is a spring ritual in ranch country, uniting neighbors in the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie. Cowboys commence the annual roundup at Todd Mortenson's ranch as the Cheyenne River glistens in the distance. "It's something that I look forward to in the spring," explains Mortenson. "I like to get mine done and then go help everyone else. I don't have to think or plan, I just take orders."