What's Up with the Economy?

We hear everyday just how bad the economy is. CNN reports that everything is falling apart and we're going to be "in a recession" tomorrow. So, if everything is so bad, are people just pretending it isn't happening, or going on with their lives as normal? That's my question.

Yesterday, my wife and I went to IKEA in West Chester, Ohio--it was the most packed place I've ever been to in my life. And, people weren't just window shopping, they were buying stuff. They were buying lots of stuff! They were buying furniture, knick-knacks, all kinds of items. Additionally, everyone decided to go out to eat afterwards as well. If everyone is broke with no job, how the heck are they affording all this stuff? Is America living off their credit to buy stuff to fill their huge homes they can't pay for? Or, are things not really as bad as the media tells us and people are, for the most part, doing ok?

Somebody let me know your thoughts on the economy...what do you think?