Sara Lee's new head drawn by the challenge, analysts say.(Chicago Tribune)

Byline: Delroy Alexander

CHICAGO _ When Brenda Barnes left her $2 million-a-year post at PepsiCo. in January 1988, her departure helped spark a national debate about the pressures modern women face in balancing home and careers.

She famously told one popular talk show host that she no longer wanted to miss "another of my kids' birthdays."

Now that her children are grown, Brenda Barnes has not only re-entered corporate life but on Thursday was named chief executive of Sara Lee Corp. after less than eight months at the Chicago-based consumer products company.

Barnes, 51, replaces beleaguered boss Steve McMillan, who will remain chairman until October when he retires at age 60.

With her promotion Barnes finally achieved the position many had expected she …