Two weekends ago, the Linton-Martin clan primped, preened and then trotted off to have the first of -- what will undoubtedly prove to be -- many professionally photographed family portraits. Thanks to the tireless efforts of friend and photographer Lauren, the experience was not quite as painful as anticipated. Needless to say, Ridley completely stole the show.

In keeping with the whole kitsch tradition of posing naked babies on bearskin rugs, we arranged for a few candid barenaked photos. Note Ridley's expression of utter surprise in the photo above. Did the sudden appearance of the camera surprise him? Did he inadvertently sit on something pointy? We'll likely never know.

Here's another cute barenaked shot. Baby beefcake. The bumps, bruises, scratches and scrapes on Ridley's knees and legs speak volumes about the rambunctious nature of toddlerhood.

There were a few good shots of the three of us -- a difficult feat indeed! Here's a fun action shot of Richard hoisting Ridley aloft for a succession of shots. Fatherhood .. it's a real workout.






And lastly, a decent photo of Richard & I. Can you tell that we don't like to have our picture taken? I do happen to like this shot, though it does verge dangerously close to American Gothic. All we need's the pitchfork.