Consumer Spending

In a recent CNNmoney article it was noted that consumer spending has increased over the past few months, starting with September. What does this really mean? Interest rates are going up, the housing boom has slowed, and people are still paying around two dollars for gasoline. Is this increase in spending only due to the upcoming holiday season, or is it a trend that will continue into the next year? The article also mentions that personal savings are still in the negative territory, what does this say about the increase in spending, and peoples attitudes toward the economy?
J. O'Dell