There are a couple of different ways to go with it; my choice would be either of the first two. Of course these are just my opinions -- but you've run with me for a few years, E, and seeing my battle bard know I have a pretty good handle on multi-classing (even if Aranticus calls her a gimp, lol )
1 Ranger/1 Paladin/2 Fighter:
5 AC Barkskin, Favored Attack II, Tempest II
Level 1 Paladin spells (Virtue, Lesser Restoration)
Fighter Armor Mastery I, Haste Boost II, Toughness II, Weapon Specialization, +1 bonus feat
1 Ranger/3 Paladin
5 AC Barkskin, Favored Attack II, Tempest II
Level 1 Paladin spells (Virtue, Lesser Restoration), Toughness II, Divine Might I, Divine Sacrifice I, plus access to Paladin prestige enhancements (Hunter of the Dead being particularly useful - all attacks are ghost touch!)
3 Ranger/1 Pally
Level 4 Ranger Spells (Freedom of Movement), 5 AC Bark, Favored Attack II, Favored Defense III, Favored Resistance III, Favored Damage IV, Tempest II
Level 1 Paladin spells (Virtue, Lesser Restoration)
4 Ranger
Level 4 Ranger Spells (Freedom of Movement), 5 AC Bark, Favored Attack II, Favored Defense III, Favored Resistance III, Favored Damage IV, Tempest II, +1 Favored Enemy