Mary Alley of Jordan steadies a four-month-old Romney lamb while her daughter, Phebe, 15, prepares the lamb for a weekend of showing at the Cayuga County Fair. Lauren Long / The Post-Standard

I had the pleasure of photographing this couple’s wedding in Skaneateles recently, and I realize as I post this that I’m still smiling from the event! The Heavens opened up midday but cleared just in time for the outdoor ceremony at Anyela’s Vineyards, a neat little winery on the west side of Skaneateles Lake. An elegant, yet cozy reception followed at The Lodge at Welch Allyn. Congratulations again to you both! I really enjoyed working with you.

Natalie Cole performs at the Syracuse Jazz Fest on the campus of Onondaga Community College June 27, 2010. Lauren Long / The Post-Standard

Jon Motondo of Camillus (stars and stripes cap) high fives Cory Fahey of Syracuse as they and other patrons react to the first USA goal, tying it up with England 1-1, during a televised game of the World Cup Saturday at Kitty Hoyne’s Irish Pub in downtown Syracuse. On the left are Megan and David Collins of Marcellus. On the right is Dave O’Connell of Syracuse. Lauren Long / The Post-Standard

Back again this year to the Jamesville Balloon Fest, and this time the weather cooperated beautifully. Nothing quite like the quiet, unobstructed view from above. Many thanks to the friendly group of hot air ballooners from Gatineau, Quebec for taking me up!