I'd really like to play a Ranger type character, are there any better mods than The Complete Ranger mod? I don't want this companion [censored]. is there any of the following in a few mods?
a wider selection of bows and arrows, forestry, realistic arrow physics, improvement to archery skill leveling system, some tracking skills, armor/cloaks, forest villages and woodcrafting skills (making your own bows and arrows) and making alchemy much more useful, such as the need to eat drink and cure wounds.

Thanks a lot in advance for your help!

I would take a look at Shadow Ranger, CraftyBits, FF Real thirst, FF Real thirst COBL, Real Hunger COBL, Real Sleep Extended, and Duke Patrick's Combat Archery mod.

great suggestions! above all else, I'd like some sort of woodcrafting ability though, is there any? ie (gather wood from different types of trees, bring back to cottage, make an Oak bow and willow arrows, possibly level up in a skill that is required to use woodcrafting)

CraftyBits does exactly that. Harvest wood with and axe and then create bows, arrows, and much much more with your axe, dagger, etc. It is very detailed and does a lot of stuff.

ah I didn't realize. thanks! p.s I couldn't find Duke Patrick's Combat Archery mod.

anyways, any other suggestions for equipment, cottages, etc anyone?

Duke Patrick's mod is on tesalliance. For homes, I would look at Oblivionrealestate.com. It is a comprehensive site of many houses. Also, FF Real thirst comes with a buyable camping gear receipt which gives you a portable bedroll, tent, chest, and more.

man thanks so much for your help!

You might also like Brash's Leather Armors. I know there's a "Babarized" version (for the BAB female body type), and possibly a Fantasy Figures one too.

It's actually a lot more than just, well, leather armour. It also adds bows, a camp outside of Weye, and some other features you might particularly appreciate.


edit: A fatigue-type mod could appeal, too, I suspect. Personally, I quite like SM Encumbrance and Fatigue (using the Fallout 3 settings, altered by me), but there are a number of good alternatives as well.