Barb Cooper thought she was leaving the professional world behind in favor of backyard picnics and afternoon naps.  Two children, several dogs, assorted cats and hundreds of columns later, she's traded public relations and grantwriting for freelance deadlines, and a novel continually in progress.  She's the Editor of Austin Family Magazine and the author of a self-published collection of columns entitled "The Mermaid's Purse."  She nonetheless finds time to fingerpaint.

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Okay, okay, okay.  So, I posted the only picture taken of me since 1997 in which I look showered, rested and have make-up on.  (Come to think of it, that may be the last time I WORE make-up.)  Obviously it was taken before I had these children. But, gosh, it's my website; I should have a glamour shot, right?

I guess it's sort of like smiling in your driver's license picture--no cop will ever see you looking like that.  Here's how I really look --unshowered, no make-up and with a child in my lap.  Now if you see me on the street, maybe you'll recognize me.  (Sigh.)

(Thanks to T.R. for calling me on my little fantasy. It's nice to have readers who keep me honest.  Mostly.)