We did a scaled-down version of our usual Hallowe'en thing this year.

In the past, daughter has always had a party, but this year parties are a bit of a no-no with Sam the dog, who is boisterous enough without being exposed to a room full of shrieking teenagers.

Instead, we agreed she could go trick or treating with her friend. Daughter was a witch, in a pointy hat, a pair of my high heels and my best black dress, while her friend was done up as a vampire.

Eventually, they were ready and set off, both with a large carrier bag for the goodies they expected to get.

In the meantime, our doorbell had been ringing since half past five as assorted monsters and ghouls begged for treats.

This was great fun as each time the bell went, Sam the dog went into his usual 'there's intruders at the door' frenzy.

I got to answer the door with one hand while holding back a snarling, growling large black beast with the other. I'm unsure who was trying to frighten who but think the dog and I won overall.

Daughter and friend arrived home 90 minutes after they had left.

They emptied their spoils on the kitchen table. As well as the usual chocolates and lollies, they had one and two-pound coins and even a fiver between them. Some people are much more generous than me it seems. I go to the supermarket and buy the biggest bag of fun size whatevers I can find.

I read in the paper that Hallowe'en celebrations, normally a huge thing in the US, have been very subdued this year because of the fear of terrorist strikes and the worry that treats could be doctored.

I did check daughter's sweets for any signs of tampering before she was allowed to eat them but I think that's something adults in the UK have done for years, since baby food manufacturers started using tamper-proof packaging.

All in all, I think Hallowe'en is a harmless excuse for a bit of fun and it was good to see groups of children out enjoying themselves.

Now Hallowe'en is over, there is just Bonfire Night to look forward to tonight. The usual sorry collection of Guys have been parked outside our local shop. I am very mean and only give money if I think enough effort has been made.

This rules out all Guys who have a mask balanced on top of a jumper rather than a proper head. Consequently, the local kids think I'm a mean old bat.

Considering most of them seem to make more money in a day than I do in a week, I don't care.