How do you track the economy?

While we sometimes tend to focus on the big national indicators like unemployment and housing starts, we also know that you don't have to be an economist to make shrewd observations about the economy.

So now we're asking you to play the real-world economist for a moment.

What everyday things do you watch for signs that the economy may be improving? And, what have you been seeing?

Are people buying Bud instead of Stella in the beer aisle?

Do your kids get invited to fancy exclusive birthday parties anymore?

And what are the lines like at restaurants nowadays?

Please share your thoughts, and we may publish some of them in an upcoming edition of Work & Money. Also, please provide your full name and the town in which you live.