51.   In fact, consumers have continued to spend freely right through the slump.

52.   It is not hard to come up with reasons why consumers might continue to feel good.

53.   Many consumers continue to associate bottled water with snooty brands like Perrier and Evian, which are both spring waters.

54.   Many clothing chains had sales increases as consumers continued to replace worn-out clothes.

55.   Many consumers continue to borrow.

56.   Meanwhile, autos may become a glut on the market if consumer spending continues to lose steam.

57.   Meanwhile, a separate report from the Federal Reserve showed that consumers continued to ring up debt at a more subdued pace, even during the Christmas shopping season.

58.   Most retail shares gained on the view that while growth may slow, consumers will continue to spend.

59.   Most retail shares gained on the view that while growth will slow, consumers will continue to spend.

60.   Most important, consumers continue their love affair with the Internet, spending an average of one hour a day on line.