Dawn,
You asked how my wife handled it, and really, she didn't have much of a comment. Even though she is extremely supportive my feminine self-expression, she still sees her husband underneath. I do think it surprises her though, how well I get along in public when presenting my feminine side, even when I'm not fooling anyone about my true gender. Her biggest worry is that somehow my presentation will result in someone taking offense. I think encounters like these, reinforce the notion that I am accepted by most as the woman I am trying to portray, and I hope it allays her fears.
Hugs,
Sally