Recession's Discounts

Retail sales were up in May --the first increase in months. Partially attributed to rising gas prices, some see it as a sign that consumer spending is picking up and the recession might just be nearing bottom.

If you're eager to do your part in spurring the economy by spending some cash at retail, I found this handy list on Forbes.com of 10 things to buy before the economy improves. Some obvious choices include a house, car, and TV. Some of the not-so-obvious? Diamonds (prices down 14%, on average), laptops (increased interest in netbooks is bringing prices down), and toys (lower-priced options to arrive in time for holiday shopping).

Rounding out the top 10:

1. House
2. Car
3. Vacation
4. Toys
5. High-Dividend Stocks
6. Laptops
7. Diamonds
8. Women's Clothing
9. Televisions
10. Furniture

I don't know about you, but I see a few things on that list that are on my wish list. I guess there's no time like the present to take advantage of the discounts and cross of few items off. Looks like I have some shopping to do!