Thanks, Uncle Sam

My $600 from the government magically appeared in my bank account today. I know I'm supposed to run out and spend it on a big-screen TV or a new couch or something, but I'm going to let it sit in my checking account for a while. At least until June, when I'm going on my return trip to the Dominican Republic. 

Does the fact that I'll probably end up spending my economic stimulus check in another country make me a bad American? Would it help if I went on a mini shopping spree and spent part of the check on clothes before I leave? I like that idea – doing my civic duty by going to the mall and buying cute sandals and a new swimsuit. Being patriotic never sounded so fun.