uservejon,
If you have time - sign up for classes at a Cisco Network Academy. I have taught in a Cisco Network Academy at a Community College for 6 years and have had a lot of network admins take the class to get the structured training as well as hands on with Cisco equipment.
As for books I use Cisco Press and Sybex for 2 different views, I also like CBT Nuggetts - computer based videos.
As for equipment Cisco Press/Boson has a GREAT router/switch sim but you should try to get some time on some "real" Cisco routers and switches.
You can get some low cost Cisco 2501 routers on Ebay - normally 3 routers and 2 switches will give you all the hardware you need for the CCNA exam.
Nothing beats hands on with Cisco equipment !!!!!!
Good luck !!!
E.A. Broda
CCNA, CCDA, CCAI, Network +