A statewide economic measure showed surprising signs of life, even tempting its creator to flirt with the notion that North Carolina's economy could finally be recovering.

The index, created by N.C. State University economist Michael Walden, is designed to indicate the direction of the state's economy four to six months into the future.

"The Index surged in November, with all components improving," Walden wrote in today's release. "Is this a sign of an accelerating state economy for the new year?"

Here's more proof that the state's economy has slowed considerably over the past few months:

North Carolina economic indicators for the rest of the year are now at their lowest point in more than two years.

The index of leading economic indicators, compiled by N.C. State University economist Michael Walden, shows that three of five measures declined.

The economic forecast for the next four to six months dropped by 1.4 percent in September and our now slightly below where it was a year ago.

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.