Last class

So I'm almost moved into my new temporary place before heading back to Canada in the spring. Thanks for being so polite and not pointing fingers as I walk in the class wearing the same clothes for the last 2 weeks. I've been a little more unshaven than usual as well as I'm living out of a box and have been moving locations the last several nights. One night I slept on a camping mat in the dining room in the house of a friend that moved to Oregon. I sound like a homeless vagabond. It's not that bad. We have lots of options and just have chosen to be free as the wind. Hopefully we don't freeze on the way.

Projects look good.

I Hope everyone feels like the class has been worth the time. Was this class good for the soul or was I just hyping it up erroneously.

I'll have the finals marked by next Monday and grades done by then as well. Shoot me an email if you want your final grade before it posts. No ones bribed me with chocolates this year. Too bad. I have a soft heart for those willing to part with candy. Guess I'll have to be extra tough on my grading.

Keep in touch. I'm on linkedIn. You can follow my future mishaps at http://www.thesimplefarm.com/ if you really want to know how I'm doing in the frozen Canadian tundra.

Homework:

Go skiing a bunch during the holidays.

P.S. don't know if I'll post anymore on this site. I'll keep it up for the good girly tunes as Candice would call them.

Anyone there?

So gave the last lecture to one person. Kind of a dissappointing showing. Hopefully you guys can stick it through to the end.


Homework:
P11-28A


P11-29A

P11-30A

P11-31A

P11-33A

Test night

Felt lonely tonight. Only had four students show up for the test. I assume that means Eric, Krystal and Ariel have gone the way of all the earth?

Guess Andrew and Reyna better find 2 buddies pretty quick to play monopoly with.

Josie says she's been studying since 7 am. That's my type of student. Nice dedication.

Andrew was looking off into space during the test. I think he was praying for answers or something.

Candice owes me one as her phone lost power at the beginning of the test. I was going to feign calculator non-pity but let her off easy.

Funnest part of the course is coming up. I love the next 3 chapters. Great stuff relating to markets, companies, banking, economy, etc.

Homework:

Read chapter 10

Test time again

Already that time again. Chapters 7-9 is tested this Thursday. Went over chapter 9 homework and went over what is on the test.

Almost rear ended someone coming into the college last night. I was quite sure it was Denise and she confirmed she locked breaks and went right past the turn off. Sorry for almost smashing bumpers with you.

Are you still around Eric, Andrew, Krystal, and Ariel? Haven't seen everyone together for a while.

Sounds like we are going to have to break Andrew, Krystal, Ariel and Reyna up. I hear you guys can't get together to do the project ever. If you can't, find 2 other friends and do the rolling process with them. You'll have to start again but maybe this will help get it completed. If you don't do the project it is very unlikely you can pass the course.

Let me know if I can help with anything.

Homework:
Study for test.
Keep doing project.

Chapter 9

Got through a lot of chapter 9 but will have a bit to go to meet our deadline this week. We have to finish the chapter, get done homework and go over the test which is on Thursday. We just have to cover intangible assets so that will only be around 20 mins of lecture.

Hope everyone is spending some time on the project. I heard one team is having issues finishing the rolling portion. Please get this done soon or we'll have to break you up and have you go your own seperate ways just so this can get done.

Project is due on the 30th. Time is creeping away.

Homework:
P9-27A


P9-28A

P9-29A

P9-30A

P9-31A

P9-32A

Done chapter 8

Finished off receivables chapter with a bang. Admitted to my credit follies of the past but talked about how credit is a plague and should be avoided at all costs. One of my favorite quotes on debt is:

“Interest never sleeps nor sickens nor dies; it never goes to the hospital; it works on Sundays and holidays; it never takes a vacation; it never visits nor travels; it takes no pleasure; it is never laid off work nor discharged from employment; it never works on reduced hours. . . . Once in debt, interest is your companion every minute of the day and night; you cannot shun it or slip away from it; you cannot dismiss it; it yields neither to entreaties, demands, or orders; and whenever you get in its way or cross its course or fail to meet its demands, it crushes you.” — J. Reuben Clark, namesake of the Brigham Young University Law School

Offered a sort of extra make up quiz type thing. If you read the first couple chapters of "The Total Money Makeover" by Dave Ramsey I will count it as a makeup/freebie quiz. Once you start reading you will not want to stop so I don't really think I'll have to have you read more that 2 chapters. Post your short summary of the book as a comment so we all can benefit. If you write too much I'll doc you points but simply tell me what you think about the book.

We will finish off a few questions for chapter 8 then go right onto chapter 9.

Homework:

Finish chapter 8 homework
Read Chapter 9

Receivables

Had a good class last Thursday. Lots of stories once again. Talked about Aging versus direct write off method. Students always get this wrong. Make sure you understand it for the test.

Had a petty cash quiz. Looks like there was a little confusion on how to do that.

We'll finish the lecture and do some of the homework next lecture. Make sure you attempt the homework so you know what questions you want me to cover. We probably won't have time to cover all the homework questions so target the ones you want me to cover.

Homework:
P8-26A


P8-27A

P8-28A

P8-29A

P8-30A

P8-31A

P8-32A

accessory to a crime

I think I just became an accomplice to Krystal selling stolen goods. I showed her how to print off a bill of sale out of Word and then she told me how there is no title on the product she is selling so can't do it the normal way.

I'm innocent. I didn't do anything knowenly wrong.

At least I'm dealing with business people. Doing the books for stolen property is probably a skill I didn't think I'd be giving you guys.

Finished chapter 7. Did some homework. We will finish up the homework for chapter 7 and have a quiz. We'll then go onto chapter 8.

Homework:

Finish chapter 7 homework
Read chapter 8

Chapter 7 and test review

Lite night for student attendance. Still had a good lecture after handing back the test. BS and IS format is still a big issue. If you can't do financials you are destined to a life of dissappointment and frustration.

The internal control lecture is the hardest one for me to get through. I always have so many stories that I get side tracked too often. We got done about half of the lecture.

We found out Reyna loves paying $30 for a cup of coffee. Denise says there's 3 feet of snow at the summit. Candice's mom is an IT watchdog at a company she won't specify.

I caught myself telling the same story for the 3rd time. You know the semester must be inching it's way along when I start repeating myself over and over again.

Here's the info on that career thing I saw.

*******************
FOR YOUR STUDENTS: Nov 18th- the Microsoft Certified Career Conference


Microsoft Learning is holding Career Conferences, November 18th that will be held 24 hours – virtually. Filled with career advice, technical deep dives and networking with Microsoft technology experts and recruiters looking to hire.

Session Highlights:

• Conference Sessions

Twenty-four hours of live, online presentations by knowledgeable speakers (for a list of sessions and speakers, click here)

Here are some great examples of content, including career Advice from Experts and technology related session.

o "Where Do I Go From Here with My Life?" - Dick Bolles - Author of 'What Color is your Parachute'

Career Essentials: Finding your first job before graduation

o Microsoft Official Course 10174 – SharePoint 2010 Administration

o The 60 Minute Windows 7 Wizard: 20 end user tricks that will change the way you work

o A Day in The Life: My first year at work

o Microsoft Cloud Solutions - An overview of the cloud and what it means to you

o Opportunity Knocks - Windows Phone 7

o Super Cert Me: Exam 70-680: Windows 7, Configuring

Career Networking:

• Exhibit Hall

Where Microsoft Learning Partners, Students To Business, Monster, MSEmploy, Career Builder, Avanade with Student jobs and others will showcase their offerings/services to the conference attendees

• Employer Hall

Where employers and attendees can connect about real career opportunities

• Virtual Lounge

Where all participants can mingle and chat

This is a great source of Softskill and technical content that will add to your student outreach, and student at events numbers, while helping students network with industry, prepare for a career and land an internship or job.

Here's the link to it. http://www.msregistration.com/msl


Homework:

P7-26A


P7-27A

P7-28A

P7-29A

P7-30A

P7-31A

P7-32A

Test night

Tell me it's wrong that I saw a jeep in the parking lot with 6 inches of snow on the roof. My kids and I cheered when we heard there might be snow today. We've already tried boots on and the kids have their season passes. Not sure what I'm going to do this year. I'd like to get a pass but am not sure how much time I'll have this year to play. I still hope it snows soon.

Looks like everyone has taken me up on the cheat sheet. You'd be amazed how many students come without a cheat sheet even when it's offered.

I'll email Denise and Josie the career thing. They are the only ones that seem to care. Remind me if I don't send it out by tomorrow.

Been busy at work lately with the Portland State University students. Their professor has their first project due this week so of course everyone is trying to access the system for the first time. There have been many calls about how to get in. Funny thing is there's been a whole month before this first project is due. I guess students are all the same. That brings me to our project. Give me some good news. Are you done with the monopoly portion yet? I'm going to be in Canada over Thanksgiving so will be out of touch for questions. Get me you questions before the last day or so. One month and counting before D day.

Homework:

read Chapter 7

Chapter six homework

Only caught a few yawns tonight. I count it a victory when I don't put anyone to sleep or if I can keep Candice from texting too many times.

Went through some monopoly questions. Looks like you guys are almost there. Did Andrew ever show up for the game?

Went through the test with everyone. Hopefully that helps for studying. Last time I asked how long everyone studied for. Varied from "I didn't" to 12 hours. I'd guess 5 to 10 hours for studying isn't too outlandish for a test. But that's just me who isn't too smart.

I told everyone at the end of class that I'd allow a cheat sheet of letter size paper. Hopefully Eric is reading this blog as he left class when I said everyone could leave if they wanted.

Krystal and Ariel look like they are getting this stuff. Denise has really good questions.

Any project questions?

Check out this job fair type thing with Microsoft. http://www.linkedin.com/groupItem?view=&gid=3000704&type=member&item=32807869 Any one looking for an IT job may be interested. Or just job hunting in general

Homework:
Study for the test

Chapter 6

I like lecture nights. Went through FIFO, LIFO and Average costing along with a few concepts that relate. I saw the monopoly folks getting their project going. Good to see. I guess everyone is skipping out Tuesday so I will have to talk debits and credits during my bedtime stories to my kids.

Test is next Tuesday. Not this Tuesday but the one after this Thursday. Come to call on Thursday so I can tell you what's on the test.

Homework:
P6-29A


P6-30A

P6-31A

P6-32A

P6-33A

P6-34A

P6-36B

Chapter 5 homework

Told my dead cat story last night. Pretty dreadful experience. We didn't go back to that store too often. There wasn't many stores on the island so had to do it occassionally.

Talked about Williamsburg Pottery, Lowes, Walmart, the project, etc.

Looks like the project groups are set. Let me know if you have any questions before the 19th. Special journals are usually the main question.

Homework:

Finish chapter 5 homework
Read chapter 6

Merchandising

Good class tonight even though most of you were missing. Almost got through chapter 5 and assigned homework. Talked about the different aspects of the merchandising business.

Andrew told us about how people can monitor businesses for them and make money by narking on shoplifters. Great gig. What's the link to that Andrew?

Talked about Walmart, Uncle Milton, Target, Costco, Paradise, maggot bars, witch hazel or whatever it was that we returned overnight for $80 to a customer. And many more stories.

I'm thinking about making the 19th an optional monopoly class. Get in groups and come if you want. I can be here in case you need me. What do you think?

Homework:
Do homework assigned in the last blog. I really mean it or I'm going to look meanly at you in class. Maybe snort and huff. You won't like my mean face. It's really scary.

Homework

So I get the feeling not too many of you are doing homework. It's not that effective to do it in class if you haven't tried it yourself. Please at least attempt to do it.

Homework for Chapter 5:

P5-26A


P5-27A

P5-28A

P5-29A

P5-31A

P5-32A

Chapter 4

Gave back the tests on Thursday and had a quiz. For some reason a lot of people skip the day after a test. Don't know why that is. Easy quiz. I'll give you half marks if you answer these questions as a comment here.

*******************
What do you like best about Acct 201?


What can be done to improve Acct 201?

What is working well in classroom instruction?

What should be done to improve classroom instruction?

Did you do all/most of the homework by yourself before class?

How long did you study for the test?
****************

Almost finished chapter 4. We'll for sure finish tonight and go onto homework.

Gave out the project as well. Need to get into teams of 4. Let me know if you have any questions about the project. It's worth 25% of your grade.

See everyone tonight.


Homework:

P4-23A


P4-24A

P4-25A

P4-26A

P4-27A

P4-29A

Test night

Test night is always boring. I stand up at the front for two hours trying to entertain myself with marking, blogging, etc. I don't get to tell any stories or talk Debits and Credits. Wish I could just do away with tests but I suppose the students would revolt if they didn't get to take a test and have a night off from listening to me.

Everyone showed up so no dropping the course from here on out. Why go through the agony of 25% of the course if you were just going to drop?

Didn't hear too many cuss words or groans of agony. How was the test?

Did you try the homework before coming to class? I think that is the main thing that determines the grade in the class. Either that or really good bribes. ha.

I have a few people that have earned points for commenting on the blogs. So far I have Josie with 3, Reyna 1, Candice 1, and Denise 1. Long way to go if you want to get full marks for the blogging quiz. If i've missed any useful comments let me know. I'd hate to cheat you out of a point or so. Either that or just make a comment. Easy quiz marks.

No one's linked to me via LinkedIn. I feel so rejected. You should connect with me. I've been useful to quite a few students wanting references for jobs, scholarships etc.

Homework:

Read chapter 4

Test time

My Fargo trip went pretty well. Hard to really have that much fun in Fargo, ND but it was a good event overall. Glad to be back.

Went through the test last Thursday and got through most of the homework. Still seeing some questions on debits and credits but the glazed looks are not as frequent as at the beginning of the semester.

We'll see how well everyone gets this stuff after grading the test.

Homework:
Study for test

Adjustments

Good class last night. Lots of interaction and since Reyna and Ariel were missing we only had 6 people there to do homework with. Hopefully Ariel does her homework so she can't say "I just don't get this". Ariel, you know if you came to class you would get it.

Candice spends most of the class texting. I'm thinking she's filling in her friends on debits and credits or retelling my funny jokes. there are three types of accountants. Those who can count and those who can't.  I don't get it. me either. Lame.

Andrew is getting things. Looks like sitting at the back isn't that bad.

Me and Denise were in the zone talking debits and credits.

I think Eric sits at the front because he wants an A.

Krystal is great to have in class. I don't know if she is paying that close of attention but she always smiles and kind of fake laughs at my jokes. At this point I know how to pretend people are enjoying the class. It's the little things that makes coming in at 7 pm 2 nights a week worth while.

I'm kind of in a sarcastict mood as you can tell. Spent all day fixing problems. No one yelled at me today so at least I have that.

Everyone should be on myaccountinglab now. Let me know if you are not.

No class on Tuesday. I'll be in "Fardakota" as my 3 year old girl is saying.

Homework:

Finish up homework for chapter 3.

Quiz day and chapter 3

Always like lecture day. These first 3 chapters don't have too much story telling as it's more getting our feet wet. Starting chapter 4 I'll have lots of stories to tell.

Ariel chose accounting over speech. Good choice in my opinion. How often in life do you get to learn things that will change your life. Intro to Accounting is one of those courses.

Candice doesn't get my jokes yet. She hasn't become an accounting geek yet. Just wait. It will happen.

Candice and Eric found the blog. Josie is getting into leaving comments. Denise deserves a punch in the nose as she's signed up 2 times now for myaccounting lab. I hear the keys I sent worked so make sure you sign up.

Got done a homework problem, quiz, then half ways through chapter 3. We'll finish the chapter and get onto homework.

Homework:

E3-19


E3-21

P3-28A

P3-29A

P3-30A

P3-32A

P3-33A

P3-34A

Still plugging away

Got through quite a few homework questions. Hopefully everyone is saying Journalize>>post to ledger>>trial balance in their sleep.

Saw a few yawn's and thought Reyna was going to fall out of her chair a couple of times.

Gave up the marker to a few of you. I'm just lazy and didn't want to do all the work.

Krystal didn't know where the homework was so started at number 1. ha.

Looks like debits and credits are coming along. A few of you still need to write the word debit on you left hand and credit on your right.

Probably will get done chapter 2 homework next class and give a quiz. Will then go onto chapter 3 if we have time.

Are we going to slow? or too fast?

Homework:

Finish homework from chapter 2
Read Chapter 3

Debits and credits

Finish your homework

I don't know how stronger I can say this. Do your homework. Try it. Figure it out. Do it. This is a critical chapter to do your homework. This sets up the rest of the year.

Got done chapter 2 lecture last night. Started using the term debit and credit. Still see some blank looks but should be better after we do the homework on Thursday. Hopefully the tatoo idea helps. Josie was excited about the idea of fresh ink.

Told my donkey story so hopfully that reminds people of recieving cash not donkeys.

Still having issues with the myaccounting lab. I sent the last update they sent me so respond to that. Maybe if we all complain it will get fixed.

Krystal was mia. I guess Ariel and her can share notes.

Reyna got a online textbook but doesn't have a computer to use during class. Ariel got the chopped up version online.

Candice doesn't have a bow. She only deals with semi-automatic weapons while riding around in her tank.

Linda dropped the class and has a book to sell if anyone is interested.

Andrew loves writing checks.

Took some pictures of the class and myGPcloud. Make sure you send me all your pictures so I can get a good one for our case study with Microsoft.

Homework:

Finish your homework

Chapter 2

I see something funny on the myaccountinglab site. The only student signed up is Cami and she's the one that dropped. ha. It worked for her somehow so not sure why everyone else is having troubles and she's not around to ask the secret to signing up. I sent a support request into the tech support guys so hopefully we'll have this fixed soon.

Got through chapter 1 in flying form. Told too many stories so didn't quite get to explain debit's and credit's fully. I see two years ago I did a blog on this topic. Funny that I'm doing the same stuff I did way back when.  We'll finish chapter 2 on Tuesday and go through the homework.

Ariel skipped class because she was tired from working at the new Walmart. She's a greeter at the main entrance so make sure you say hi and encourage her to come to class next time.

Krystal is a good example for us all as she still came to class even though Ariel was tempting her with pizza and ice cream and a full night of rolling each others hair.

Josie showed up to take Cami's place.

Reyna was trying to do the homework problem with out looking at the question in the book. I think I saw her meditating before class so that explains a lot.

You learn a lot about students from thier email addresses. Any guesses who huntergurl27 is? or mtgolfer?

We learned you can make big money from animal excriment last night.

I admited to naming my first born kid Debit and second born kid Credit. I could tell Candice believed me. The rest of you were too polite to smile in case I was serious. I love a new class of students who haven't heard any of my jokes. I've been working hard to get this routine down just right.

No one really expects more than a B in the class and some are ok with anything above a D+ so that makes my job easier. I was hoping someone would at least say "I only get A's."

No one has looked at the blog so I can keep telling stories about you for my own pleasure.

Homework:
Read chapter 2
E2-17

E2-20
E2-22
E2-23
P2-27A
P2-28A
P2-29A
P2-31A
P2-32A

P2-33A
P2-34A
P2-35A

First day of class

Always exciting to walk in and see a new group of students excited for the year. I've had a few already submit the first web quiz and am waiting on the rest of to follow suit. Hint, hint.

I forgot to mention how these web quizes go. Each "normal" quiz is usually out of 10 points. The web quiz is out of 10 as well but it relates to your participation on the blog. Any time you leave a useful comment on the blog you get a point. So the first email to me with your answers to the following:

1. Why are you taking accounting?
2. What are some outcomes from this class that will make you feel this semester is a success?

Are worth one point and you will need to make 9 more comments throughout the course of the semester to get full marks. Let me know if you have questions about that.

I didn't have a role but let me see if I remember everyone:

1. Erik - Good answers sitting up at the front. Only caught him yawning a couple of times
2. Candice - Blonde girl. Only one that took me seriously about getting up and leaving if needed
3. Cammy - Didn't hear a peep from her. I think she was awake mostly though
4. Andrew - Teletech guy that says the job is going OK so far
5. Linda - Works for an accounting firm and is here in class to make sure I'm telling everyone the right info. Nodded her head and smiled at just the right times as if she was paying attention to what I was saying
6. Denise - Dream job on the mountain. Looking to get into accounting so she can be a ski bum her whole life
7. Rayna - Another blonde girl. I'm sure I'm going to get you and Candice mixed up. Coffee house job? Previously at MSU. Thinking about using the online textbook instead of hard copy. I like it. Should be cheaper. Would be nice if you can figure out how to print the whole text instead of one page at a time
8. Crystal - Lowe's Lumber specialist. Was previously in the Lumber Jack program at FVCC but got a torn bicep throwing axes so decided to get into accounting instead
9. Ariel - Umm...can't remember her first job. But is a nurse up in Whitefish somewhere. Must know Crystal from Logging program or something as they were sitting together from the start. Most everyone else was scattered other than Linda and Denise.

I started out the introduction with my usual "Accounting is good for the soul" story. I never get tired of  telling stories. Hopefully everyone doesn't mind humoring me. I have lots to tell throughout the semester.

In my opinion the first few chapters are the most important in the whole semester. If you can get them down the rest just falls into place. Spend some time so you can be prepared for class.

Homework:

Read Chapter 1
33A
Probably should read Chapter 2 as well as we'll plunge ahead as I don't think we'll need all of the next class to get done chapter 1

So the semester begins

I've just signed up for another semester at the college. Should be a good year. I'm going to be using www.myGPcloud.com this year to help me show how a real accounting system works.

Got students looking for books so if you want to sell your old books you can comment here.

Looks like we start class in August. That's pretty dissappointing. ha.

See you all in class.

Last post of the semester

Last class of the semester tonight and potentially the last time you will have to hear any more of my nerdy jokes. Jeff is thinking he won't see me again. We'll see how he does on the test.

I should have tests graded by this Thursday and submitted by Friday. At least I better as I'm going to be in San Diego on Sunday for a week.

This could be my last day teaching as well depending on how my house selling goes this summer. I have mixed feelings about that. I like teaching and whatever happens I will probably find a way to torture students in one way or another.

Stay in touch.

Homework:

Have a good summer

Chapter 22

I assigned P22-26a as I looked at the test and a question like this is on it. We have 2 classes left then the final.

On the homestretch.

I started looking at the projects but haven't marked any yet. I'll try to have them done by this Thursday.

Homework:

P22-26A
Read chapter 23

D-Day

D-Day is at hand. Projects are due by 11:59pm tomorrow. Had a few more students than I thought we would. Gave pointers on the projects that were there.

Homework class next session. Be interesting to see who shows up.

Homework:

Finish projects
Finish homework if you have any energy left

Chapter 22

Second to last chapter last night. Had a fun night. Told everyone that we weren't going to have a quiz then after Jeff left I gave a quiz. JK.

After nearly 2 semesters Teresa found out all the answers for homework is at the back of the book. She almost got up and left as what's the point of class if the answers are at the back. "That's why you don't give marks for homework".

Talked about flexible budgets and finished off the lecuture. Next class on Tuesday I will leave open for projects. I will be at class and will answer any project questions. You can stay home if you like and work on your project or you can come and get help. Projects are due on the 29th.

Make sure David knows as he hasn't been in class for the past 3 weeks.

Homework:
P22-25A
P22-27A
P22-28A
P22-29A
P22-30B

Just kidding Mrs. Middleton. David is a good student and has been at all classes this semester.

Budgets etc.

We are entering the homestrech of the course. The last couple of chapters are just wrapping up. Budgets, Flexible budgets and balance scorecard.

We almost finished chapter 21 and I assigned homework. Shouldn't be too tuff of a homework day.

Projects should be on your mind. 25% is a lot and can effect your grade significantly.

Homework:

P21-21a
P21-22a
P21-23a

Test day

Lisa looks to have gone the way of all the earth. Jason is alive and even has a cheat sheet. This is a really good test. I'd be interested in hearing how hard you think it was.

No chocolate from Angela so I guess she was confident that she knew everything.

Hand out the teacher survey next class David. I'll make sure I'm 10 mins late.

Projects are due in 16 days. It's starting to be crunch time in school. Hold out for a few more weeks and the summer will be here. Last test is on May 11th so you have less than a month to go.

It's still snowing. How can this be? Isn't it spring time yet?

Homework:

Read Chapter 21

Test on Tuesday

The 3rd test of the semester is tomorrow. Lisa and Jason if you're still around make sure you try to come at least for tomorrow.

Chapters 10-20. I'd say a majority of the test is focused on chapter 18.

Projects are due April 29th and carry a 25% weight. You really have little chance of passing the class if you don't hand something in for your project. The highest you can get without the project is 75% (C). Seventeen days and counting. Better start now if you haven't already.

Homework:

Study for test. I said you can have 3 pages worth of cheat sheets this time.

Time value of money

Fun class for me last night. Spent 2 hours and only got through 5 slides or so. Hope I didn't lose everyone at the end in my description of the discount rate for PV. A couple of links here if you want more than what your book has to offer. Must have been getting late.

Even though I didn't really tell any stories I went off on tangents like Insurance plans, Term versus life, money supply, investing in stock market, real estate, perpetuities, annuities, stocks, bonds, etc. Once I get started it's hard to keep me on track.

I see Teresa's eyes roll everytime I say "it's easy in excel". Irina and Kailee hardly use facebook anymore. Patrick has spent some time working on the project. Jeff was awake at the end of the class. That kind of surprised me.

Didn't see Lisa or Jason. Hope you two are still around.

We'll finish up the chapter and do most/ all of the homework on Thursday. Then go through the test.

Project due date is coming fast. April 29th is just around the corner. Don't wait.

Homework:

Finish chapter 20 homework

Chapter 20

I see my contraband milk run story made a big hit. The secret life of an adjunct instructor. ha.

Gave a quiz. Got through half of chapter 20 after finishing off the homework for chapter 19.

Hope everyone has a good spring break.

Homework:

Read chapter 20
E20-21
E20-22
E20-24
P20-28A
P20-29a
P20-30A

Decision making

Finished chapter 19 just barely. Told lots of stories and got done the chapter lecture.

Went over a few project questions. Next class is the last day before spring break. Yeah.

Homework:

19-24a
19-25a
19-27a
19-28a

Read chapter 20

Contribution margin

Finished off the contribution margin homework...barely. We spent 2 whole classes on it so hopefully it was enough to get everything worked out. Struggled at the end with explaining saftey margin. Think my brain was already on weekend mode. Let me try to explain it better here.

Safety margin is the sales revenue or units over and above the breakeven point. The question we had gave us the operating income not the sales revenue. To find the Sales revenue we could take the contribution margin (operating income in this case as it has already had the VC taken off and it has covered the FC) and divide it by the CMRatio. CM/CMR=Sales revenue. We found the CMR by taking total CM (10.5) and dividing it by total sales price (20).

Jeff found his calling in life as a blind guy so says David. Lisa, Jason, Angela, Irina, and Kailee missing.

Teresa says she's decided not to be a management accountant when she grows up. David on the other hand gets this stuff even if it's just me who understands his thinking.

Homework:

Read Chapter 19

Homework day

Well we didn't get too far in the homework but we did go over things pretty good as it relates to contribution margin. We will continue homework on Thursday and try to get to some of the lecture for Chapter 19. So if you are done homework read up on the next chapter.

Gave a quiz so that is the 3rd quiz of the semester. Probably will get about 3 more in.

I heard Angela say she finally went to the blog and saw her name on it. What a surprise. Guess I can't make any stories up about her anymore.

Missing in action was Lisa, jason, Jeff, and Kailee.

No project questions lately. I assume that means your projects are going well and are right on track. The next month goes very quickly so don't make the mistake of waiting for too long.

Lately when I get to class I'm the only one there. Hard to start the class with no students in the room. I know some of you travel from the far reaches of campus coming from other classes but can the rest of you try to show up on time. I'm usually in class around 6:55 pm. I suppose if everyone wanted to start at 7:15 pm and go to 9:05pm we could do that. Discuss amongst yourselves as to if that is a viable option.

Homework:

Finish up chapter 18
Read Chapter 19

Sick as a dog

I hope I didn't give you guys anything. I hope I didn't get it from you. Woke up today and felt like my body was being crushed back into the bed. Had to go to work anyways so I was taking calls while I was laying on the floor.

I put the homework up on my accounting lab.

Homework

P18-23 thru 27

Test day

Glad to see everyone showed up. I was worried about Patrick but he showed up just in the nick of time before I started blogging about him. I had already come up with the title "Oh Patrick, where art thou".

Glad to see Jeff had his own cheat sheet tonight. Hopefully that helps a bit more than photocopying someone else's 2 mins before the test.

I heard Teresa's husband praying for her before we got into class. I know the feeling. I've prayed many times before a test. It usually didn't work for me though.

No Chocolates from Angela tonight. Guess she figured it wouldn't help her grade. I beg to differ but who am I to blatantly say "I can be bought for chocolate".

I hope everyone finds this test easy. It's probably the easiest test I've ever put together. ha.

Homework:

Read Chapter 18

chapter 17 Homework

Went through a sample project with Patrick's company. Showed some horizontal and vertical analysis and discussed some of the numbers.

Finished all off the homework except for the last question. I showed the answers but we didn't have time to go completely through it.

Went through what to study for the test. Does that help? I think it probably does but could use some feedback if that is important or not.

Homework:

Study for test on Tuesday.

Chapter 17 Lecture

I wonder where all our classmates have gone. It's not like many of you to miss two classes in a row. Next class is the last one before the test on Tuesday. Might be a good day to come.

Felt like I was talking with David and Teresa all class with everyone else nodding their head in hopes that I'd think you were paying attention. ha. I tried to tell lots of stories but am not sure if anyone finds this stuff interesting besides me.

We got through one homework problem in class and will finish up the rest on Thursday.

I was amazed that no one knew about the Canada vs. USA hockey game to end off the Olympics. (at least one one admitted knowing anything about hockey). It was a classic game and Canada ended up winning in OT. In homage to that I put some Canadian songs on the blog. Don't be offended. The bands name is arrogant worms so how serious can you take it.

Homework:

Finish up chapter 17 homework

Homework for Project Costing

I wonder what happened to our classmates last night. There were too many missing bodies to count but the ones that did show up were in for a treat. Lovely night of T accounts and good humor.

Gave a quiz on the homework. Second quiz is now in the books.

We didn't get to the lecture so we will hopefully finish that up and get to some of the homework.

Homework:

Read Chapter 17
E17-16
P17-25A Thru P17-29A

Project costing

Finished up a good lecture and gave an example of project costing. Teresa's Turkey Plant was a big hit.

Sounds like everyone has a company to start analyzing. Hopefully that is enough to get everyone underway with thier project.

Jason missing again. Jeff looked very comfortable at the back.

I always get confused about which stories I've told at this time in the second semester. If you were in my class in the first semester you've probably already heard most of my jokes and stories. Grin and bare it. I don't mind (actually I prefer) being patronized.

Homework:

finish up P1625a-29a questions
Read chapter 17

Homework for chapter 15

I've been skiing all day so just getting to this update. We finished chapter 15 homework then started chapter 16.

I'll have to do a better blog later.

Homework:
Read chapter 16
P16-25 thru 29

Chapter 15 lecture

I thought this chapter would go fast but I told too many stories again. We have an extra class so should be able to cover everything with no problems.

I sent out the power points to everyone I have an email for. Hopefully our slides match now.

A few of you have told me what companies you are going to analyze already. Remember, Thursday I would like a company name for your project.

We are going to finish up/ do chapter 15's homework next class and start chapter 16.

Homework:

Finish up chapter 15 homework
Read chapter 16

Mostly project day

Handed back the test and sent out the "What's my grade" spreadsheet. This should be where you keep track of your grade. You can fill in what you get on each test, quiz and project. Email me with your contact info and I'll send it to you if you haven't received it already. I'd like some feedback on it as well. I think it's great but would be interested in know what I could add or take away to make it better/easier for you.

Handed out the project and gave several examples of what your project can look like. Several good examples and a few so so examples. Hopefully everyone (except Kaili) is clear on what needs to be done.

This project is worth 25% of your grade. Please start working on it.

Started chapter 16 but didn't get too far.

Homework:

• Tell me by next Thursday what company you are going to analyze for your project
• Read chapter 16
• E15-19
• P15-23A
• P15-25A
• P15-27A
• P15-28A

Test Tuesday

It's funny how everyone shows up to test day. We haven't had this full of a class all year.

Jeff showed up and realized he could have a cheatsheet. Patrick was kind enough to pass his along. I hope Jeff doesn't get higher than you on the test patrick. ha.

Jon came in and said "Ready to do battle". Seems fitting. Not that my tests are that much of a battle as they keep getting easier and easier as time goes on.

I learned that a strawberry is not a berry but a banana is according to Lisa's son. Learn something new everyday. I hope that is not listed as one of the things Lisa learned this year in accounting.

Angela's snickers had me drooling all class. How rude not to share. Talk about lost chances, that could have been atleast an extra couple of marks on the test. I'm not that far above bribing. Atleast when it comes to chocolate. ha.

I'll hand out the project next class. Probably a good class for everyone to be here.

Homework:

Read Chapter 15

Test on Tuesday

Started with about 3 students in class. I was wondering if I was in the right room. Jason showed up finally. Jeff says he has snifflelis or something. Test is on Tuesday Jeff. And it just so happens that I didn't give a quiz this class either. Lucky for Angela, Kaili and Jeff.

We finished up the homework and went over what to study for the test on Tuesday.

David said his wife was wondering what his attendance is in our class because he doesn't seem to be getting too much smarter. You need to start mumbling "current ratio equals current assets divided by current liabilities" in your sleep. David has 100% attendance Mrs. Middleton. He's a great student as well. You should be proud.

Lisa says her kids ask her to read to them out of her accounting textbook at night because it's so interesting.

Teresa looks like she knows what's going on. Everytime I make a mistake on my spreadsheets I see her scrunch her nose and think "I know I'm right, he's doing this wrong". As I said before about homework, I do the homework with you (when we have time) instead of just giving you the answers. Which means I make mistakes and hope you correct me when I'm wrong. Hope it's helpful. Let me know if you want me to speed up or change anything.

It's nice to have the time to go through the homework on the analysis chapter as that's a great base for the project.

Homework:

Test on Tuesday. Study all weekend. I'll be thinking of you all while I'm tearing up the slopes and watching the Super Bowl on Sunday. Go Saints I guess. Stupid Farve.

Lots of Homework

We spent the whole 2 hours crunching numbers. What a great class. We took it kind of slow and I did most of the work in Excel. Everyone witnessed how bad of a typer/speller I am. I think I'm a worse typer than writer on the board. When I write on the board I can atleast use squiggles to pretend I know how to spell.

Kaili used Excel for the accounting homework for the first time and I know she's hooked now. I heard her gleefully say "I love Excel". All I have to say is - get married quick, your slipping into accounting geeky-dom. Everyone else did it by hand which is ok but a little more time consuming.

Angela graced us with her presence for the first time. Glad she showed up before the first test.

Teresa still is not reading these blogs. She did say she tried to turn on a computer but got confused when it said Login. She was wondering who Login was. Maybe Kenny Login been using her computer. Nice. Time to cut loose, footloose...Most of you probably don't remember Footloose. I remember when that song knocked Thriller off the number one spot. Man I loved the 80's.

We will finish up homework next class as we are just getting into the problems portion of the homework. I'm still debating about a quiz. David accused me of being a grumpy teacher as he's never heard of anyone "giving a quiz then a test on consectutive days".

Missing Jeff and Jason again. You guys still around? What about Irina?

I must have scared Adrienne off I guess.

Homework:

Finish homework starting at P14-22a

Financial statement analysis

We somehow managed to make 33 slides which contained 22 slides of explaining formulas last 2 hours. Funny how I can entertain myself with whatever content as long as it relates to accounting or numbers.

Missing a couple of people but that's not too new for Jeff and Jason.

Caught Patrick napping during class last night but he blurted out "It Depends" and sure enough that was the answer to my question. We can go on and on about what it depends on but 9 times out of 10 when I ask "is that good" can be anwered with those two words.

Lots of homework this time. Hopefully this will help with the project. Try doing with Excel if you can.

Homework:

• S14-5 thru S14-11
• E14-18, 19, 20
• P14-22A thru 26A

Homework class

Teresa asked if it was important to look at this blog last night. I told her it wasn't but now that I know she doesn't read these I guess can write interesting things about her and everyone can point fingers at her and giggle and tell her "look at the blog" until she does. Ha, this could be lots of fun. For example, did you know that Teresa has 9 kids, 6 boys and 3 girls, and was once the mayor of Whitefish. She also enjoys polar bear hunting and shot 2 while stationed on a tropical island when she was stationed in the US Navy. Just ask her, she has lots of good stories to tell.

Didn't see Adrienne. Hope she didn't have a change of heart already.

Had lots of fun doing cashflow statements. Went through 4 homework problems and ended the class early two class periods in a row. Wow, that's a record. Don't get accustomed to it. I gave us an extra day or so this beginning chapter to make sure we had lots of time to get everyone on a solid standing for the first test.

Jason got one question right all by himself. He looked like he wanted to open his own accounting firm right then.

Jon seems to get calculations. I always look at him to make sure I did things right on the board. I figured things out with a T account. He just thought about it and made up his own formula. Good job.

I haven't received an email from David yet but think I'll send him the calendar and surprise him that I actually remembered he wants one.

Anyone else want me to send them one? I didn't get anyones contact info yet besides Lisa. I should have all of yours but probably don't. Send me your email address so I can make sure I have the correct one.

Homework:

Read Chapter 14 - Financial Statement Analysis

Cash flow statment

Had a surprise appearance from a former ACGT 201 student. Adrienne sauntered into class and I was pretty sure I remembered her sitting in the same spot about 2 years ago. Glad to see she thought she could stand another semester of my dry wit and geeky humor.

It's felt pretty good the last couple of classes. Had quite a bit of participation and most of my jokes get some giggles out of some of you. Tried to explain cash flow principals. I saw several eyebrow scrunches and a few head shakings. Not sure if that's because of my explainations or just people trying to stay awake. Please give me feedback if you want me to go over something again. Hopefully going over homework will clear some of the confusion up.

Finished up the cash flow chapter and explained that thumbs were meant to be used by all accountants. Assets it's opposite, liabilites and OE it's in the same direction. Some of the slides were hard to look at. As I said in class, I think they are more confusing than they are really worth.

Did a sample cash flow and assinged everyone to try the homework themselves before going through it in class. We should get through all the homework and possibly start on chapter 14.

Homework:

• Finish homework assigned from last blog
• Read chapter 13

First day of class

Good to see a lot of old faces in class. A good majority of last semesters class is back. Also nice to see Teresa, Kaili, and Irina join our happy ranks. I'm not sure if the newbies get my jokes, humor and all around good wit yet. Hopefully I'll rub off on them soon.

Teresa ownes her own house cleaning service. Kaili had a few yawns but tried to be polite and hide them. I caught Irina chuckling at a few of my jokes. She must already be down the road a bit to becoming an accounting geek. Irina and Kaili are not married so encouraged them to find a husband before they become completely nerdy.

Let everyone know our signals. Scratch head to repeat, scratch side of nose to deflect questions.

Still have a few missing according to our roles. Would be nice to have another couple of students to torture.

After going over the course syllabus and calendar we went through the beginning part of the cash flow statement lecture after wetting our chops on some debits and credits.

We will finish the end of the lecture next class and possibly go onto a homework question or two.

Overall it was an good beginning class. Looking forward to Thursday.

Homework:

• E13-17
• E13-22A
• P13-24A
• P13-25A
• P13-29B