Bush II; Day 449: Economy Slow-down a surprise?

I'm not sure why so-called experts find the Q4 economic slow-down a surprise.

I'm no expert, but I knew about Hurricane Katrina and other natural disasters that happened right before Q4.

I'm no expert, but I heard all about a slower-than-hoped-for holiday shopping season.

I'm no expert, but I heard that Americans weren't feeling too optimistic...and I'm not expert, but I know that consumer confidence plays a big part in the economy.

I'm no expert, but I've certainly heard the dire warnings about the housing bubble inevitable burst.

I'm no expert, but I know that if companies reach Q4 and find they've already reached their annual expense levels, or have not hit anticipated revenue targets...then they take a step back until the New Year.

Could the so-called liberal media be trying to continue the rose-colored glasses view of the economy, and the only way to do that after this Q4 is to say "my goodness, I just don't know what could have happened! I'm flabbergasted!"?