The Gallup web site ia a great way to get a snap shot at daily basic statistics.  Economic Indexes such as economic confidence and job creation ratios.  3-day and 14-day consumer spending, how people feel about the economic outlook (getting better vs getting worse) and economic conditions (excellent/good vs poor).  Job market- hiring or letting go, standard of living (getting better or getting worse).  Get the latest by clicking on http://www.gallup.com/Home.aspx