A Busy Christmas, a Cold Start to the New Year & Something New on the Website
After sharing how I started making stock ties and then diving into the history behind them, I thought this third blog would be a nice opportunity to be a bit more personal and catch up with you all.
Firstly, I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and managed to enjoy some time with family, friends, and of course your horses. Mine was certainly a busy one! Christmas is always a hectic time, but I was incredibly grateful for how busy it was for CJ’s — seeing my stock ties heading off to their new homes never gets old, and I’m so thankful for everyone who chose one of my pieces over the festive period.
As we’ve stepped into the New Year, it feels like winter has well and truly made itself known. The snow we had here in the UK at the beginning of the year was beautiful to look at, but definitely a reminder of just how cold those early mornings at the yard can be. Frozen taps, crunchy paddocks, and the endless layers of clothing we all pile on — I’m sure many of you can relate!
Monte and Pixie not overly impressed being turned out in the snow!
Cold weather riding is something most equestrians just get on with. Horses still need feeding and exercising, yards still need doing, and competitions and lessons don’t simply stop because it’s chilly. That’s why practical, comfortable kit is so important at this time of year — pieces that keep you warm without being bulky or uncomfortable.
With that in mind, I’m really excited to share that I’m currently adding a new product to the website:
fleece riding hat ear warmers.
These have been designed with winter riding firmly in mind. They’re made from soft, warm fleece and fit neatly under your riding hat harness, helping to keep your ears warm without interfering with your helmet or feeling restrictive. Perfect for hacking out on frosty mornings, standing around teaching, or just pottering about the yard when the temperature drops.
Like my stock ties, these ear warmers are all about combining practicality with comfort, and they’ve already been thoroughly tested in real winter conditions (including snow!). They’re ideal for anyone who struggles with cold ears but doesn’t want the hassle of headbands under their riding helmet.
This time of year always feels like a good moment to reflect and reset. I’m really looking forward to what this year will bring for CJ’s — new ideas, new products, and continuing to create items that are both useful and thoughtfully made for everyday equestrians.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support, kind messages, and orders. It genuinely means so much to a small business like mine. I hope the rest of your winter riding is warm, safe, and enjoyable, and that the New Year brings plenty of good rides and happy horses.
Keep an eye on the website and social media for the fleece riding hat ear warmers that are currently being added to the Rider Equipment page — they might just become a winter essential!