As the Southern Christmas Show kicked off its 42nd season this week, early returns are leaving merchants optimistic - but still wary of the economy beyond the red, green and glitter-bedecked hub of holiday spirit."A lot of exhibitors came into this show a little apprehensive about what it was going to be like, and I think they're finding their sales are as good or better than last year," said David Zimmerman, president of Southern Shows, producers of the event, which opened Wednesday.