I live in a small city in upstate NY - actually the smallest city in the state at one square mile in area. However, as it is set in the middle of suburbia north of Albany, the state capital, we are surrounded by the typical suburban tracts.

Our streets are the typical square blocks common among cities, and as it is an old city (well, old being a relative thing, it is old for this country at about 200 years), the houses tend to be close together, plus we have well lit streets, sidewalks, and our own police force. In other words, it is the ideal community for parents to bring their children trick or treating. Hence, I get several hundred children every year and go through unGodly amounts of candy. As I always give out full size candy bars, rather than those continually shrinking "fun size" bars, I get A LOT of kids.

Well, this year, for the first time ever, I have decided to dress up in a costume to give out candy - but even more important than that, I have decided to dress up in a female costume. My sons all know about me now, and since one of my nephews decided to tell everyone he knows at the local bar, I assume that I have nothing to lose. Besides, it's Halloween and those who don't know will simply assume that I am just getting in the spirit of the day.

I for one plan on making the best of the day and enjoying myself to the fullest extent possible. I have already let everyone at work know that I will be unavailable after noon, except for emergencies, in order to give myself time to properly prepare my costume. No adult parties, just me finally being me.

Dallas