By MOLLIE BROWN / Community Columnist

Shoppers visited the booths of over 40 vendors at the Holiday Shopping Expo held at the Calera Intermediate School Nov 16. But it wasn’t just shoppers in the spirit of Christmas, Santa was there to listen to children’s requests and finalize his list.

Reese Barker is hoping Santa will leave a Nobby under her tree and a rainbow candy cane in her stocking. Macie Adams wants an iPad mini and turquoise earrings, and her mom Laura has picked out a ring and sent Santa a picture to ensure he gets the right one. April Oakes wants a whole new wardrobe.

Joshua Rhoads wants an Auburn room and “this, like, motorcycle, but it’s almost like a bike for kids, not a dirt bike.”

Landon Hoehn shared what’s at the top of his list. “I want a new xl Nerf gun. It shoots six bullets and it’s big and red or orange and gray,” he fired off. The most famous holiday line crossed my mind: “You’ll shoot your eye out.”

Laiken Hammond wants a Glitzi Globe. Seeing my puzzled look, her mom said, “It’s sort of like a snow globe; I had to look it up online cause I had no idea what she’s talking about.” What would parents do without Santa’s secret workshop?

Alaisha Richardson was dumbfounded when I asked what Santa is bringing her. “I guess a happy family,” she said. Needing clarification, I asked if that’s a game. “Um… can I tell you something?” she asked. Looking at my two granddaughters, ages 7 and 9, she motioned for me to lean down. “I’m 13, I don’t believe in Santa,” she said. Alaisha understands the true meaning of Christmas.

Event organizer Alicia Seales said Christ Central Church helped set-up the event. Proceeds from a silent auction and pictures with Santa benefit The Shelby Baptist Association whose Christmas Gift Shop provides gifts to families in need.