How Do You Know When We've Reach the Bottom?

Here is how you will know that we have reached the bottom of this economic market. 

• First-time unemployment claims will drop. 
• Consumer spending will have more oomph, boosting retail sales for a few months in a row (wait, didn't we just have that in January and February?)
• Stock market rallies will last for weeks.  Typically, stock markets foreshadow recoveries.  This time, though, investors may wait and watch for signs that the government's efforts are working.

If that doesn't work, then just watch the media.  They will tell you that we have reached the bottom about six months after we have passed the bottom.  Just food for thought.