A Loving Embrace
It was the second day of second grade a little over twenty years ago. At the bus-stop waiting for the bus to take us to Ocean View Elementary School I saw someone familiar. A redheaded kid who was shorter than me. “I know you!” we said to each other - we were in the same class at school
For the next several years we hung out, played GI Joe, spent the night at each others houses which were a half block apart on Belgrave Ave. Middle school came and so did the years of video games, listening to him hack away at the bass guitar, and loads of misbehavior. There were times when we didn’t hang out as much, but whenever we got together it’s like things always were.
After high school and many many nights at diners and driving around in old cars he went to college in Boston. Many years there. Instant messengers and the occasional visits home kept us kind of close. Reluctantly he moved back to Hampton Roads and has today become one of my favorite people in the world, my good friend Justin Dohrmann.
Now Justin was a regular at a record store downtown, where a librarian also spent some of her time. Justin and the librarian eventually hit it off and soon were inseparable. Now this particular librarian comes from a large family, of which Justin soon became an essential part. It’s been great to see these two over the years grow as people together and grow as one together. I now consider this librarian one of my favorite people in the world as well. Kim is an amazing woman. A guy like me can only hope to find someone as perfect for me as Kim is for Justin. At one point in time one of them might even say “you complete me” to each other, followed by the other saying something mean and the both of them falling over in laughter.
Justin and Kim got married today in Norfolk, Virginia. With an obviously bright and high sun on a beautiful day. This photo is their embrace right after kissing the bride. While not the best photo in the world I think that it does well in showing their love for each other.
Cheers guys, here’s to a long and happy life together.
Great little story Joe. And you are right, the picture isn’t the best. However, it does show so much more than what we usually get to see at weddings - with the officiality and such. Whatever the case, I agree with you. They are two great people and I, too, wish them all the love and happiness in the world.
I think it’s a pretty good picture, it really shows a lot. congratulations to both of them.
it’s also a great story, it’s nice to know that you have a friend like that.
Great Story and Great image of a loving embrace. Congrats to Mr. and Mrs. Justin Dohrman.
I can still remember the two of you sitting at the bus stop and oh my goodness, how the GI Joe’s were spread all over Justin’s room. And don’t forget how the bicycles zoomed up and down Belgrave way before the old cars ever did!
Your words touched my heart. The time you and Justin have spent together and the fact that you have remained friends is a testimony of the young men you have both become.
All I know is that you are a blessing to our family and you are always welcome in our home and will always have a place in our hearts.
Hey, Joe, I think it’s a great photo, but even better are your comments. Your description of the photo is wonderful! Our best to the happy couple!
this is touching, and very well written joe.
WOW! Are you a photographer and a writer? Such talent, very beautiful! May God Bless you with many years of married bliss Mr. and Mrs. Dohrman.
I don’t think I even spent the night at your place until y’all lived on Government. I think we should go to the Army Surplus on Granby and get camoflauge pants for Gio’s birthday party. Serious.
Marrying Kim might have been the easiest decision I’ve ever made. I am more nervous about buying used PS2 games at Gamestop. No lie. I didn’t get nervous until Uncle Henry made me speak in front of everyone.
I can’t wait to see the film photos.
nice, so good, touching and well written. congrats to kim & justin on their wedding & congrats to you & justin on yalls friendship.
Oh, Joe. Not only am I blessed to have Justin, but also the wonderful people he has brought into my life. Thanks so much for welcoming me into your life and becoming one of MY favorite people in the world. Not only have you been a good friend to me, but you have also become part of the Kabuti family! We include you in all the family functions. The aunties and uncles ask where you are when you can’t come to a party. Gio is constantly asking “Where Uncle Joe? Uncle Joe take picture?” That’s all I heard this morning for about an hour.
Our wedding would not have been the same without you. Thank you so much for your friendship. When I think about it, you’re the closest thing to a bro-in-law I will get from Justin’s side of the family. I couldn’t be more fortunate.