The malls are packed and people seem to be on a buying binge even now. If not the HELOCs I am sure the credit cards are being maxed out. Or perhaps they are spending every last penny they make.

But in any case, running up ridiculous amounts of debt and then crying for a handout seems to be the American way. People are just spoiled these days, it's the "I deserve to have it now" attitude!

You know, I've always been curious. How much does the average consumer spend on the winter holidays (to be politically correct)?