Running out of steam

Having little ones that are sick, dealing with car being in the shop and being told there is nothing they can find wrong, not having the money you need. I am running low on steam to fix all these problems. As a wife and mom I have to get things on track when they get this out of hand but sometimes it's like running into a wall at 90. Eventually you crash and burn and would rather curl up in a ball and just forget. Even though there are highlights to the the everything gone wrong days, It's hard to see the good in all things and move past the day to day negative drag. Just working hard to create a happy more positive outlook. I am tired of being drained.

Interview gone

So since I have finished school in December I have been putting myself out there for a job. I have found that some want to see more certificates which I don't have and others just are not calling me. So when a top of line hospital called me to meet face to face I was thrilled. Having missed the call I quickly returned the call and got a voice mail at which I in turn left a message stating I was interested and would love to come in. I didn't here back that day so I waited did my follow up call and was told that it was noted I was no response, and they put someone else in my spot to interview. I was also told I could reapply, which meant starting all over again. I was angry that this girl who I Left a message with was telling she checks her messages and returns all her calls and pretty that is that. I was S.O.L her word against mine.

Here I am

I have been so busy that posting on my blog has been on the bottom of my list. Update I finally finished school and I am now a Patient care tech. Jobs are slim but I am working on getting in there. I have had time to watch all my Real housewives though. LOL I am looking forward to New York coming up, my husband not so much. I have started a few side business to help me make a little extra money one is AVON.. funny thing I have noticed is that everyone sells Avon. The other one is hosting parties on different level not make-up more on the adult side of things and its a great girls night in. Ahh and the other newest news I am expecting my third little one in July. I thought I was busy before but I keep adding to me plate. My husband keeps telling me to slow down. I have a gig for extra cash catering at the Accenture Match Play this Wed-Sunday at the Ritz. Along with things being put on the back burner that would have to be my Knitting. Oh I have so much to do. I have purses to fix, I have some new ideas to get started on for this year and I am finally thinking about contacting some boutiques to sell my stuff in this year. I have to get the guts up to do it. Meanwhile I will be working away like a busy bee. Well Happy Monday and I am looking forward to some comments or even followers.. Is there anyone out there??

Summer Break

Well I have a week off from school. I have successfully completed my CNA class and I am waiting for the first available date to take my state test. Next week I start working on my PCT classes. Almost there and then onto another college to get my AA as a Surgical Tech. Then after that on to get my Masters for RN. I am going to be in college forever.

So I have been interested in moving after I am well on my way and half way done with school. One place I have started looking at is New Zealand. Why? You can't beat the beauty, and the homes are gorgeous. The only thing is I have never been there and I am not sure what the people are like, the schools and how things work there? There are medical jobs there in high demand which is better than what I am getting here. Although AZ is having issues with the state budget so that puts jobs on hold. Then there is the other factor that so many people are unemployed that when on job opens they have thousands of applicants.

I finally made it to orientation to volunteer at the VA Hospital through the Red Cross. I have had to go through so much red tape because it is a federal building. I still have a lot of paperwork to complete and face to face interview.

I am hoping that with this nice little break I can knit and get some new items up on essenceofara1.etsy.com. And for this Month in July I am offering a free gift with purchase from http://amaxwell-cousins.mymarkstore.com/ Hey I have to help pay for college some way.

Am I Really That Boring? Wait Don't Answer That.

I must be extremely boring as a blog writer... no one wants to comment or be a follower of my blog. Hum what does it take to be the blog everyone wants to read? I need my own reality show to get my fame as an interesting blogger. LOL. Well at least I make myself laugh. God If I had cameras following me around everyday the camera crew and producers would be put to sleep with how normal I am. Just normal old me.

Well on that note I have started my 2nd part of my CNA Classes and I am so pumped to take my state test. I went to clinical and I was thrown into a entirely new world. It is hard work. These residents depend on you for help with every day things that we take advantage of. After getting over my nerves on the first day, which had me on the verge of throwing up, the routine came easier and I felt real satisfaction in what I was doing.The best feeling in the world is to see them smile and be happy. I took two practice state tests and past both, so the studying is paying off. By July I should be a licensed CNA in the state of AZ. WOOHOO! I have maintained a 4.0 and made my spot on the Dean and Directors list. Ya Me!


Me on the right.
I sent in my application to a college for nursing and I am waiting to hear back. I was hoping to hear something today but no such luck. oh well the waiting game.

On top of everything there are so many other things I want to do. I want to get my CDL and go to culinary school, and buy a dirt bike. So I would be the Nurse who can drive big rigs, make a mean dinner, and take on MX track. Mom said I am a jack of all trades and master at none. I have done tons fun and fabulous things. Life is a dance you learn as you go.. right!

Keeping up on my reality shows has all been possible because of DVR. I have no idea what I would do without it.Any who, Real Housewives NJ I am not getting the reasoning behind them. The only thing I can think of is that they are related so that's why they are interesting. Well all them are related except one. I have never been to NY or NJ, but just curious are they the same type people, or is like Beverly Hills vs Orange County. You know like City girl and the girl who knows what a backyard is. Really is there a difference? New shows I have picked up on are Southern Belles:Louisville not a bad show a little on the boring side at times. I think my interest perks more with the people who are too rich for there own good and run around buying outrageous stuff. However the Southern Belle girls are more my style down to earth and are not afraid to fish and cook their own food. The new non reality show I am excited about viewing is Nurse Jackie, which looks so funny.

Well I used say I must be gett'n on so I can knit.. but now its I must gett'n on to study study study. Oh and work on my reality show deal with a major network.

Being Sick

Uhh the cold that never leaves it just lingers and keeps you feeling miserable. I have moved on to my next class which is my CNA portion. These classes move extremely fast. I have to study hard and stay focused on the prize. Since I am swamped being a mom, cleaning, and student I am happy I invested in DVR woohoo! I have been recording my show The Real Housewives of New York. I look forward to a marathon on the weekend. The New Housewives of New Jersey scare me they might hire a hit man if you say anything bad about them. LOL

My poor knitting has been stopped completely, and even though I have a few things to felt my washer died last week. It was crazy I had a small load in and the washer got off balance. No big deal stop and it and fix it. The washer was hopping around in the laundry room so hard I was afraid to get near it. The barrel in the washer broke off it jumped around so much. Now laundry is backing up and I am waiting for a new washer to arrive. So felting is out of the question. I have so many patterns I want to start but I can't fit them in to my busy schedule. Ever since I started school it seems like everything happens at once. There isn't enough time for everything and trying to get a routine down has been so hard.

So I hear that twitter is the new thing to do and everyone talks about it all the time it crazy.I signed up but I must be getting old because I don't get it. I don't know how to find people and it doesn't seem that user friendly. However I have not set down and played with it really. I think this next weekend I will take a closer look. But is twitter the new wave of communication? Hum Well I must be off to get my day going.

Happy Knitting

Avon???

I am asking for opinions from people about Avon products. Do you like Avon? Do you find there stuff affordable? The reason I ask is because I am thinking of becoming an independent consultant with them. I was told on Friday that The Body Shop At Home is closing for consultants like myself. Your input is greatly appreciated.

Hope everyone is having a good weekend.

Busy Girl

It has been crazy busy these past few weeks starting school. Oh lord. I have had to learn when the best time is to do my homework and study.. it's when the kids are asleep. I have been out of the loop on my show The Real housewives and on the weekends watch the reruns to catch up on the drama. tehehe. My final is on Tues next week and on Thurs I start my next section which is health care. I am so looking forward to getting in and learning. I also signed up to volunteer with the Red Cross. I am hoping to get going on that Next week. My knitting has been put on the back burner for now. There really isn't enough time. Well I am off and running.
Happy Knitting!

My Mission

I would like to empower, motivate and inspire people to living a happier and more fulfilled life. I want to be a good role model for my children by going to college and succeeding in my career with the medical field. I want my family to see me grow as a responsible person who helps others. I want to pass on good morals and honesty to my children.

Going back to college after many years has proven to be a challenge. With my determination and will to succeed I have pushed open the doors to a new chapter in my life. Rising above the issue’s that I face I have found I am much stronger than I thought. I want to make a difference in my life and those that surround me. Changing my career this late in my life I have found I am motivated more than ever. My goal is to help others by becoming a registered nurse. I want to offer care and comfort for those who are in pain and may be suffering, to help save a life and bring a new life into this world. My education is very important to me so that I can deliver the best care for each patient I come into contact with. I want to step up to the table and make my mark in this world. To overcome my own fears and prove to myself I am capable of anything.

Finding my place in today’s world can be difficult, but with perseverance and education I can achieve my goals. The legacy I hope to leave behind is to have an open mind, faith in yourself and the anything is possible.

My PCT Class

Well last night was great I made a great new friend and everyone was very nice. I am behind since I signed up late, but they felt confident I could catch up. At first the teacher freaked me out by making me feel I had a lot to catch up on. What's funny is I have taken the beginning class before at Ashford Unv. It is a class they make you take to prepare you for school. I even think I have the book somewhere. This class just helps you find your best ways to study and keep a handle on time management. It's a good book lots of helpful hints.After this I will move into the CNA portion and then on to PCT. I thought being at school at night I would be tired but I was wide awake. Last night we had CPR training. I am less nervous now since I pretty much remember a lot of stuff from my EMT class I took many moons ago. Well I have to get started on my homework.
Happy Knitting!

My Chapters

I was thinking last night about the chapters of my life that would be put into a book.

Chapter 1* Born, Not much there to remember so we will move on.

Chapter 2* Aww the the toddler years crawling walking saying goo goo gaa gaa

Chapter 3* Elementary school, making life long Friends and then moving from a small town to a huge city life.

Chapter 4* Junior high, totally lost as a small town girl, living up to expectations that a manger,agent, and family can put on you. Missing a lot school and not making many friends but working on set a lot.

Chapter 5* High school,Freshman & Sophomore cheerleader,I finally get the hang of things,I made some great friends. Then Junior year fall into a rabbit hole and by senior year with the grace of god live through it and graduate.

Chapter 6* Early 20's, Trying to answer that pressing question of what I will do with my life. Learning who I am and seeing I would rather just hang out with friends. Changing jobs like I change my underwear.Meeting all the wrong men and falling apart. Not understanding that my actions would affect my future.

Chapter 7* Mid 20's, Still trying to figure out what my career choice will be, Meeting the right man, getting married, and having our baby girl. Moving around to find the right home and ending with buying what I thought was our dream we would have forever. Communication is key in any marriage, trying to make a plan for our future.

Chapter 8* Late 20's, Our baby boy was born, thought we had it all jobs, cars, vacations, and then the rug was pulled from under us losing it all. Moving to another state starting over again and trying to hold on to what we had left. The trial of my life had taken a drastic turn and the changes I had to go through quickly put me in a state of lock down. After faith,prayer and determination we have finally started to get our ducks in a row and are trying to move on without our luxury life style.

Chapter 9* 30's, To be continued until next year.


That's it in a nut shell. It is so interesting to look back and see what you should of or could have done to change things. The only steady thing in my life was the support and endless love of my family and friends.I don't think I would be the person I am with that.

On another topic I start my PCT class tonight and good news I got a call about a JOB! I know OMG! right. I am so happy and I hope this is just the beginning of great things to come. Meanwhile my new schedule is going to limit me from my knitting, but I can live with that. I still have two purse's to felt and some unfinished projects to work on. I think today I am going to start another purse. I hope to have pics up by next week.

Well I am off. Happy Knitting everyone and God Bless.

Here I come

Well it is official I am signed up a starting my PCT class this Thurs. I am so happy. I wish I could have gotten in at the hospital it would have saved me a lot of money but I have to act now. I was nervous last night making the commitment, I just hope that we can over come the obstacles we will face the next 9 months. Those being daycare, money to pay for school and I have to find a job before my unemployment runs out. I don't have much time. I know i have posted this info all over but really this is so important to me. Please check out my store links as this is what I have to right now to help me pay for school.
http://amaxwell-cousins.mymarkstore.com/
essenceofara1.etsy.com
http://www.thebodyshopathome.com/web/acousins
Thank you all for your support.... Keep Knitting

There is Hope

I am so thrilled I applied for a job today that will work around my school. If I get this job it will allow me to pay for daycare for the little ones and not leave us broke. Since I decided to take a night class I will only run into problems if my husband's job takes him to New Mex to work which is a possibility. I am looking for back up ideas to help with that. I don't think I have ever needed a job and wanted to go school as bad as I do today. I am sure there are many other people who are thinking the same thing. It's funny when I hear someone complain they hate their job I wanna say "Hey at least you have one! While I am grasping at straws and coming up short you have the ability to pay your bills and buy the good grocery's." You know some items at the grocery store that are low priced are not too bad but I miss the food that has taste and isn't in a can.

I have been stuck at home and will be since my daughter has a cold. I am getting cabin fever already. I miss my outings with the moms group. This week they had tons of fun things planned out and we were going to be crazy busy having fun. Then the runny nose came on and I knew what was to come. Even though my daughter doesn't act sick, for example she is running over her brother with her toy car screaming "Move Bubba!" he never moves just laughs at her. Anyway I would feel bad if she got someone else sick, it is frowned upon to bring a runny nose to any play group.

Here is another purse I did. It's up in my little girl collection. I tried to be creative with the handles.

Time to Knit

I have put my issue's with trying to go school and pay for daycare for my two little ones on the back burner. I swear if I keep thinking about it I will throw up. So I have picked up my yarn and needles and started knitting like a mad women again. You can tell when I have a problem I can't solve I will have made like 20 scarves and 10 purse's. Even though I have looked into many ways to pay for daycare it's difficult since we make too much money as a family.. Yet not enough to stay afloat and not loose the things we have. I am still an independent consultant for The Body Shop At Home and a Mark Rep, but since I am new to Tucson I don't have many friends to help me host parties. I was hoping to get in at a hospital here in Tucson that offers on the job training to become a PCT. However I am thinking they are on a hiring freeze right now. With our situation I have to act fast and with the economy going the way it is who knows how long I will be waiting around.

I have finished two scarves one yellow and white and the other is a tan and orange. Both in the funky design. I also finished a new Party Purse that is grey and black. I have some other colors I am thinking of using for a new Party Purse, maroon, black and red, and orange and tan. I am going to see about doing matching purse and scarf as an item to sell together. On top of making things to sell on my Etsy and I working on Christmas gifts too. I want to start early this year so when November comes I am not knitting my fingers to the bone. I have a few ideas in mind and I love looking for new quick projects. The Internet is such a good source for finding quick knitting projects. Well I must be off and running yarn in hand.

Happy Knitting

The Real Housewives

I love watching The Real Housewives of New York City. These women are freaking funny. I think I watch to escape. Bethenny cracks me up, when she dressed up as Jill and did the impersonation that was great. The new girl Kelly I had mixed feelings about, that was until her lash out to Bethenny. She claimed she wanted to work things out and ambushed Bethenny after inviting her to meet at a bar. I would have not been as nice as Bethenny was. I also decided that I want Jill's mother to adopt, love her. Ramona she is a little off in my opinion. Alex and Simon they are a cute couple and even though somethings they say or do maybe odd you don't let that stop you from liking them. I have to say the women Of OC are not as interesting to watch. They lack the attitude of the New York women and Atlanta has too much attitude. The new Housewives of New Jersey should be interesting but I think they should do The Real Housewives of Texas or The Real Housewives of Colorado.

Etsy.com

I have added two new collections to my Etsy Store. The Petite Fille Purse Collection and The Party Purse Collection. Please take a look and send me your feedback.

On another note I have been busy busy getting things back on track. We had a great trip to Texas and Kyleigh and Landon really enjoyed being around family. I have lots of knitting stacked up to start so I must be off.

Landon Fishing with his sister's pole

Kyleigh talking to the pigs.

Happy Knitting

Back On Line

Well now I am back on line at home. Yippy!! I have to admit getting out to the library was nice but with only one hour to research and respond to emails and sneak in a blog entry was no easy task. I did check out some books and one video on nursing so that was a plus.

Since I have joined a moms group I found getting out of the house and taking the kids to the parks to play makes me a happier person. The women are supper nice and the kids are the ages of mine. There is always something to do and you meet new people everyday. Our first trip out was to the zoo and I was more excited about than my 2yr old. The place was packed but we still had fun.

Mean while I have slacked on my knitting being out of the house more. This next week I plan on catching up since I will be vi sting my grandparents in Texas. Plus I will have my knitting guru (mom) with me to help on those projects I just can't figure out. My purse handles are not lining up right even though I am measuring. Well I am off for now.

Keep Knitting

Lost

I am so lost without my computer these past few days. The library is a nice treat to get me out of house I guess.

I took the kids to story time today and it was a nice little group. I am branching out trying to make new friends. I even signed up to a mommy's group. My main fear that I am a bad mom and my kids are worse than I thought. After being stuck in my home for almost a year with two toddlers I have become afraid of people. I fear judgment. I had so much more confidence than I do now. These are the main reason I decided to change all that and get out and meet people. I always thought I could get by without having to need anyone. I have proven that is the wrong way to think. Once again I have to go due to my time limit.

Happy Knitting. By the time my computer is fixed I will have lots of stuff made to show.

Crash!!!!!

So my computer had a melt down and crashed. I am now at the library using there computer. Its a nice library they have so much stuff these days. I used to hate the library, I think it was because of the smell of the old books. So now everything is on hold and my hour to use the computer is almost up. That's all the time you get to surf the web and reply to emails. I have to say I am so lost without my computer. What did they do before computers? Yes, I was born when the first computer came out, but back then they were not so needed like they are today. I can't do anything unless I have the Internet. I can't pay my bills, apply for a job, check my bank account. It is so crazy. Well I better hurry only 20 mins left before I am kicked out.

Knit Knit Knit

So between looking for a job and being depressed, I just have to knit to calm my nerves. Knitting really is a therapy. If I keep my hands busy and focus on my creation I feel so calm. The best feeling comes from finishing your creation and knowing you made that. I have been playing around with a few ideas for new felted purse's. I have my yarn ready to knit new Funky Scarves and I am chomping at the bit to go go go. I have have A.D.D. when it comes to knitting, I think I get it from my mom. I start off pulling my yarn then all of the sudden I have piles of books around me with other thing I want to make. Next thing you know I spent the day looking at my yarn, needles and patterns and never get anything made. To help me I have set out the patterns and yarn with needles in individual zip lock bags. When I go in my yarn room I pick up a bag and start knitting, this keeps me from wondering off. Here are few of my new projects and after I felt them they will be up on essenceofara1@etsy.com The new collection is called "The Petite Fille Purse Collection" French for little girl. My 2 year old daughter whom I call the purse collector was my inspiration.