Ep 13. Happy Birthday to Me

In season 17, episode 13 of "The Pioneer Woman," Ree Drummond celebrates her birthday in her typical style: with lots of food and family. The episode, titled "Happy Birthday to Me," is all about the ways Ree likes to indulge on her special day.

The show begins with Ree making a batch of her favorite pancakes, which are studded with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. She also makes a side of sausage links and serves up mugs of hot coffee to her husband and kids. It's the perfect way to start the day, and Ree is clearly enjoying herself.

Next up, Ree heads to town to do a bit of birthday shopping. She stops by her favorite boutique and picks out a few new outfits, then heads to the grocery store to stock up on ingredients for her birthday dinner. She decides to make a classic roast beef, along with mashed potatoes and gravy, roasted carrots, and a spinach salad. For dessert, she bakes a decadent chocolate cake with buttercream frosting.

Back at the ranch, Ree starts preparing the roast beef. She seasons it with garlic and herbs, then sears it in a hot skillet before transferring it to the oven to finish cooking. While the meat is roasting, she makes the mashed potatoes and gravy, which she admits are one of her favorite comfort foods.

As the dinner comes together, Ree reflects on her birthday and what it means to her. She talks about how grateful she is for her family and the life she's built on the ranch. She also shares some of her favorite birthday memories, including the time her husband surprised her with a hot air balloon ride.

Finally, it's time to eat. Ree plates up the roast beef, carrots, and mashed potatoes, and pours the gravy over the top. She tops the spinach salad with bacon and homemade croutons, and serves it alongside the main course. For dessert, the family gathers around the table to sing "Happy Birthday" as Ree blows out the candles on her cake.

Overall, "Happy Birthday to Me" is a heartwarming episode of "The Pioneer Woman" that shows Ree celebrating her special day in style. The food looks delicious, the outfits are cute, and the love between Ree and her family is palpable. It's a reminder that sometimes the simplest things in life can be the most meaningful.