Ree Drummond, known for her role on “The Pioneer Woman,” recently shared an emotional celebration of her 30-year marriage to husband Ladd Drummond during a long-awaited trip to Italy. The couple, both aged 57, embarked on the journey after continuously postponing their European getaway for three decades.
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In a heartfelt Instagram post on October 2, Ree reflected on their long-anticipated adventure, stating, “It only took us 30 years to get here.” The Drummonds’ itinerary featured iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum in Rome and St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City. They embraced the Italian culture with gusto, indulging in an array of pasta dishes and gelato, while sharing snippets of their experience on social media.
Ree elaborated on the significance of this trip on her blog, revealing that their desire to visit Italy had been strong since 1996. However, raising their five children—daughters Alex and Paige, and sons Bryce, Jamar, and Todd—along with their work in ranching, had kept them from fulfilling this dream. Just a year prior, the couple made a pact on their 29th wedding anniversary to finally take the plunge and book their trip.
“We have always managed to find excuses not to go,” Ree admitted, recounting how most of their travels had been limited to visits to Vail, Colorado, or trips related to book signings. As their 30th anniversary approached, Ree noted an increasing sense of determination to make it happen. She expressed some skepticism about their ability to follow through, particularly concerned about Ladd’s commitments on the ranch.
Their journey began with a ten-hour overnight flight, marking Ladd’s first experience in the luxurious pod-style Business Class. Arriving bleary-eyed but excited, they enjoyed lunch at their hotel rooftop while waiting for their room to be ready. The culinary adventure commenced with Ree proclaiming her porcini mushroom pasta as “the best thing [she’s] ever eaten in [her] life,” setting a delightful tone for the days ahead.
The couple soon set off to explore the rich historical tapestry of Rome. Their first full day included visits to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where Ree humorously imagined herself as a gladiator inside the majestic Colosseum. The evening culminated in a gelato experience, where she boldly chose four flavours for her cone, while Ladd opted for a simpler chocolate option.
As their journey progressed, the couple visited the Vatican, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica on the following day. The artistry and grandeur of the architecture deeply moved Ree, leading her to admit that she “got teary-eyed” at the site of such breathtaking beauty. She took a moment to reflect on the profound impact of experiencing these historical wonders in person rather than through photographs.
Ladd, who typically maintains a calm exterior, also expressed his awe at the scale and splendour of their surroundings. Ree conveyed her surprise at their emotional reactions, highlighting the trip as a cherished experience that neither had anticipated would be so intense.
The Drummonds’ celebration of love and commitment, paired with the stunning backdrop of Italy, has proven that patience and perseverance in both life and love can lead to truly unforgettable moments. With their 30-year anniversary officially celebrated, the couple’s venture into European travel may inspire others to embrace their dreams, regardless of the obstacles faced along the way.