The City of Columbia sponsors a yearly #LoveColumbiaSC photo challenge. I submitted a few photos to this year’s contest and was excited to be recognized as one of the winners with my blue butterfly entry.

I truly appreciate the recognition, it means more to me than just winning a plaque. Columbia welcomed my family over 35 years ago when we immigrated from Lebanon to start anew. My life’s most cherished milestones took place in Columbia: College graduation from the University of South Carolina, first love, first marriage, raising my children, first job, meeting the love of my life, my children’s college graduation from South Carolina… Columbia holds a special place in my heart. I am happy to show my gratitude through my photos. Now I can add another milestone to the list: first photography award from the city that I love. Thank you Columbia, I will proudly display this plaque.