The Case Shiller Home Price Index shows a 5.0% appreciation rate over the last 12 months, just below the 5.1% anticipated.  The report that blew the doors off the walls this morning was Consumer Confidence, registering a 104.1 when a 98.0 was expected.  I can’t remember a time when Consumer Confidence was over 100.  If consumers now actually spend their money on stuff, that might cause the wheels to keep turning, which will eventually give the Fed the growth numbers they need to see to raise interest rates.  For now, let’s celebrate the great rates we have!