Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond’s daughter Paige Drummond has returned to her roots on her family’s ranch.
At 55, Ree, the celebrated culinary star, shares five children with her husband Ladd. Recently, she revealed that Paige took the brave step of becoming the first Drummond child to leave behind urban life in Dallas, moving back to Pawhuska, Oklahoma, to work full-time alongside her father as a cattle rancher.
In an enlightening story that originated in the fall 2024 issue of The Pioneer Woman Magazine and later graced Ree’s blog, Paige detailed her life-changing decision to leave a structured corporate position for the untamed lifestyle of a cowgirl.
Over the years spent in corporate America, she felt increasingly confined, as if the world beyond her office walls was beckoning. Growing up on the vast expanses of the Drummond Ranch, the allure of the open fields tugged at her heartstrings, igniting a yearning for the rugged life of ranching.
“When I was younger, I never really thought that I would be back here working on the ranch. I kinda had it written off,” Paige shared in a reflective video embedded in the blog post. “But as I went off to college and started my professional life, I began to miss the whole experience of ranching. I realized how much I wanted to return and immerse myself in it again.”
She continued, echoing her father’s encouragement, “My dad said, you don’t have to decide now if this is forever, but you’ll never find out unless you give it a real shot. And that’s what I’m all about these days. It’s been absolutely wonderful so far.” The warmth radiating in her eyes told a story of liberation and fulfillment.
Despite being the sole female in the Drummond cattle team, Ree pointed out that her daughter’s upbringing prepared her for this formidable role. The ranch was not just a home; it was a school of hard knocks and leadership.
“She can really hold her own with the cowboys,” Ree noted with pride. “She’s not a novice. This is in her blood.” The words echoed, resonating with the sense of belonging that deeply intertwines with the ranch’s identity.
Amidst the video clips of Paige rounding up cattle, she openly discussed the arduous realities of ranch life. “It’s a hands-on job,” she acknowledged with a knowing laugh, despite the undeniable fatigue it brought. “Sure, it can be punishing—cattle kicks don’t tickle, and I have a colorful collection of bruises.” Her humor, a welcome respite from her struggles, reflects the resilience she embodies.
“Thankfully, I don’t get any slack just for being a girl,” Paige added. “The expectations are clear: I work as hard as every other rancher.” This attitude pushed her forward, sculpting her character amid the demanding environment.
One of the greatest challenges for Paige is the early morning wake-ups that commence at 3:30 a.m. “It’s a relentless schedule,” she reflected, recognizing the toll it takes. “These days can stretch to twelve or thirteen hours, and let’s be honest—after all that hard work, exhaustion becomes a familiar companion.” The dedication shines like sunlight filtering through the trees on a crisp winter morning.
However, Paige remains grateful for every moment spent on the land. Her contentment in nature is palpable as she connects with the rhythms of ranch life. Each sunrise represents a promise, a chance to embrace the beauty that accompanies hard work.
In her blog, she shed light on a common misconception: ranch life is often portrayed as picturesque and idyllic. “I think a lot of people don’t get what it’s really about,” she remarked thoughtfully. “What you see on TV can be quite misleading.” The reality is much more complex, filled with grit and determination, beyond just riding horses under a starlit sky.
“People envision a charming life spent atop galloping steeds all day,” Paige laughed lightly. “But most of the time, it’s heavy, hard labor. There are countless tasks—fixing fences, tending to the cattle’s health—each minute time-consuming yet rewarding.” The rewarding nature of ranching can be overshadowed by the relentless pursuit of chores and commitments.
Interestingly, Ladd Drummond had instilled a sense of responsibility in all his children from an early age. “He believed in hard work,” Paige recounted. “Growing up, we always had our hands full. Being homeschooled allowed us to participate in ranch duties more, which was a double-edged sword of learning and labor.”
Yet, returning to the ranch has also pushed her through new experiences. “I’m starting to understand responsibilities I didn’t have as a child,” she reflected. “Every day brings new lessons, challenges that shape who I am.” Her determination to grow is evident in every word.
While Paige expressed pride in being the first sibling to embrace full-time ranch life, she is optimistic about a family reunion in the fields. “I have a strong feeling that my brothers will join me here,” she shared with excitement. “After they graduate college, we can create even more memories together on this land.” The thought of future collaborations instills hope, weaving a richer narrative for the Drummond family.
Amid these changes, Ree provided some insights into her daughter’s living arrangements post-return. “Paige is actually living in town, in the house that belonged to my in-laws,” she explained. “It’s comforting we still have this space. It helps her form her own identity even outside the ranch.” This house symbolizes the intersection of legacy and personal growth, where past memories weave into new beginnings.
As for her long-term intentions, Paige remains uncertain, a feeling that resonates with anyone who has been faced with significant life changes. “I can envision myself staying here,” she mentioned, reflecting a quiet commitment to her current path. “But then again, it’s still a work in progress.” The beauty of ranch life lies not just in its challenges but in its vast possibilities, much like the wide-open skies of Oklahoma.
