Is There a Light At the End of the Tunnel?

Black Friday is usually one of my favorite days to shop. 

 I like the crowds, I enjoy the Christmas music streaming through the speakers in the stores and I like that it helps to get me in the holiday spirit.  I didn't get to go on Friday this year because I was working.  But, I continued to get email after email about sales being extended, percentages that were being taken off of purchases and even free gift cards.  So, by Saturday, I couldn't resist the temptation anymore and decided to venture out.

Much to my surprise, as I pulled into the Toys R' Us in East Brunswick, the parking lot wasn't packed.  I got a front row spot and the crowds were gone.  The girl behind the counter said, "You should've seen it yesterday, we were crazy in here."  I figured the chaos would continue into the weekend, but much to my surprise, that didn't appear to be the case at all.  I decided to continue on to a nearby Barnes and Noble at the Brunswick Square Mall, there was parking there too.  I was able to get in and out of the store with no trouble at all. 

I guess I missed the crowds because all I've heard since the weekend were the numerous reports talking about the record numbers of shoppers who not only turned out for both Black Friday and Cyber Monday but who made purchases as well.  Are we starting to feel better about the economy?  Is there a light at the end of the tunnel or is it more false hope?  Tune in to my reports on Consumer Confidence Wednesday to find out.....