Ruffled Feathers Ranch

01/07/2026

The Wolfman cometh

01/03/2026

Stella's first ride! Such a good girl. Even when her treats spilled out of my pouch and made noise and then when she steps over the block, she very carefully thought about her feet.

01/02/2026

12/31/2025

This year has been one to remember here at RFR!

Some highlights:

🍾. Natty began his career in NATRC and did fantastic

🍾. Callie had a healthy and stunning filly

🍾. Bella had a healthy and robust c**t, Natty's first foal!

🍾. Natty earned Silver & Bronze with the RMHA versatility program and was in the top stallions participating in the trail program.

12/31/2025

Stinker Stella's first time ground driving. Using a Weaver leather brand surcingle, a lunging cavesson, and two cotton flat lunge lines.

12/30/2025

I just bought myself some heated gloves and heated socks! During this cold snap, I have definitely been using the gloves!

TRAIL RIDER TUESDAY
Great Ideas For Cold Weather Trail Riding!

What's my favorite gear for staying warm on winter rides? By RMHA Member Erin Baumgardt

Since we lose a lot of heat through our heads, a headband and fleece mask, or fleece helmet cover are musts for me. Runners balaclava that is thin enough to fit under helmet is another idea. These are quick-dry fabrics that keep out a surprising amount of wind for their weight, and will keep your nose, cheeks, and chin protected.
Core: To me, when I start a cold ride I should be on the verge of sweating. Hands and feet need a toasty core to stay warm. Again I draw my inspiration from runners, bikers and other outdoor sports. A base layer of thin wicking fabric that dries quickly (not cotton) can be topped with a mid layer like fleece, cashmere, merino wool etc. Often I'll add a puffer vest topped with a puffer jacket, like those from 32 Degrees brand. I also love Patagonia brand jackets, and down jackets-- there are many places online to get high tech outdoor brands, used.
Legs: windproof fleece riding tights are my go-to. Kerrits is one brand. I cannot stay warm enough in one layer. My economical version is the thickest fleece long underwear on Amazon, bought in two sizes and worn one over the other. Topped with silicon grip full seat riding tights because I ride spicy horses. Amazon now carries several quality economical brands like FitsT4, Baleaf, Santiny. In the worst weather, nothing beats a fleece lined riding skirt.
Feet: thick acrylic (Polar Extreme) or wool or alpaca socks. My winter boots are a size bigger at least! If boots are too small and tight, feet will always be cold. Ariat extreme pro tall boots are my current favorite for warmth and waterproofing.
Hands: SSG riding gloves have been my choice for years. They have varying levels of warmth, the warmest being their 10 Below gloves.

12/29/2025

Sabrina is practicing her trailer loading skills and doing very well even with distractions off camera (mom & buddies). The Pivo got a little distracted too!

12/29/2025

Sabrina is happy to show off how good she is for the farrier when she gets her trims. 7 months old and up to date on vaccines and farrier work.

12/29/2025

Have you ever wondered what the saddle rack / saddle gait looks like from under the horse? Well I mounted my to find out! We are riding on a very large circle.

12/24/2025

Merry Christmas everyone!

12/21/2025

Shortest Day
(Susan Cooper)

So the Shortest Day came and the year died
And everywhere down the centuries of the snow‐white world
Came people singing, dancing,
To drive the dark away.

They lighted candles in the winter trees;
They hung their homes with evergreen;
They burned beseeching fires all night long
To keep the year alive.

And when the new year's sunshine blazed awake
They shouted, reveling.
Through all the frosty ages you can hear them
Echoing behind us ‐ listen!

All the long echoes, sing the same delight,
This Shortest Day,
As promise wakens in the sleeping land:
They carol, feast, give thanks,
And dearly love their friends,
And hope for peace.

And so do we, here, now,
This year and every year.
Welcome Yule!