Hi Quilting Cat,
I think when you created your fancy signature, you may have not hightlighted the entire "Code" line - take everything including the "[img]" pieces.
To add a photo to go along with your info when you're posting,
go to "My Profile" at the top menu, go to the 'Avatar' section and add a picture.
This is also where you can change your location (if you leave this empty, "in hiding" will show up), and add any other info you'd like to share with board members.
Hope this helps!
Linda