This is a pretty accurate representation of Rachel as she normally looks. Terrific curls, cool glasses, noncommittal expression.

Here is Rachel after I said, “Can you take off your glasses? And why don’t you look over there?” Still very intelligent, but now softer and a little more contemplative.

And finally, through no fault of her own, here is Rachel as the cover model on a Mills and Boon novel. She provided the turn of the head and the eyes, I took care of the muted tones and colors. I have nothing to say in my own defense, except that I think she looks beautiful. (And hey, I have a future as a romance book cover artist!)

She left this evening to return to one new husband, one new apartment, and one Simon-cat in D.C. — we’ll miss her!

Edited to add this one, which I almost love more than the others:

Oh, P.S. We’re going to New Orleans over Labor Day weekend. Suggestions welcome.