Favorite Halloween memory

Today marks one of my favorite holidays of the year, hence the reason why I'm wearing my Nebraska Cornhusker jersey and a yellow corn head (similar to a cheesehead worn by Green Bay Packer fans) as my costume for today. And apparently I'm not alone in my passion for Halloween.

Recent statistics from the National Retail Federation indicate that the average consumer will spend $2 more this year than in 2007 on Halloween. The organization, which keeps tabs on the popularity of costumes yearly through its poll taken by 8,167 consumers in September, believes polictal and sexy costumes will be the hottest sellers for adults. Judging from the stores I've visited and front yards of Southeast Missourian homes, I'd agree.

While I have plenty of cherished Halloween memories, the best had to be in 2005, when Tommy Webster - my former roommate in Cajun country - and I dressed in full costume and roamed neighborhoods in Alexandria, La. I was Superman and my friend was a 1970s hippie.

Our original plans to attend an evening Halloween party at our local zoo had fallen through and we thought it would be fun to trick-or-treat at my boss' home. That turned into an hour-long journey that ended with a collection of a bag-full of candy. Most people had fun with our efforts, though two homes turned out their front porch lights for good after we left the homes. One homeowner even scolded us, informing my roommate and myself that we were too old for such an activity. Though it may be some time before I can convince another 40-year-old to trick-or-treat with me, one notion is clear. You're never too old to dress up in your favorite costume on Halloween and have fun.

Whether you spend a few bucks on a bag of candy for trick-or-treaters or go all out with decorations on your front lawn and inside the home, enjoy Halloween. It's one of the few nights of the year where one can dress up like a fool and not feel out-of-place.

Now that I've shared my two cents, please post your favorite Halloween memories.