I'm 32, and no one *ever* realizes that. Almost universally, people guess my age to be in the mid-20s. (When I was 28, one guy actually guessed me to be 19. That was insane, of course.) At those carnival "guess your age or weight" booths, I can always take home the prize.

I don't know how much longer this will be the case -- I can certainly see the onset of a few wrinkles and a few gray hairs -- but it doesn't bother me either way. I enjoy being my age, and it wouldn't bother me if people thought I looked my age or even a little older.

Growing up, I had the very familiar experience of *always* getting carded when I tried to buy alcohol before I turned 21, then -- of course -- when I bought a drink on my 21st birthday, no one carded me, even though I was eagerly waiting for it to happen.

Anyway, if the situation *really* bothers you, there are things you could try (like shaving off your facial hair, since you said that makes you look younger). My opinion, though, is that you shouldn't worry about it. Your age will eventually catch up to your appearance.

And who knows, maybe your taste will change regarding the ages of your potential romantic partners. Mine certainly has. 10 years ago, I couldn't imagine being with anyone who wasn't almost exactly my own age; now I'd say I have about a 20-year range I'd find acceptable, though I still generally prefer someone my age or a few years older.

-- Trip