Meet Elli and Alex from Southampton, England

The city is known for its rich maritime culture and history. The Mayflower set sail from its port in 1620, and the later, in 1912, the Titanic departed from there on its maiden voyage. Author, Jane Austen, resided in Southampton throughout her youth. It is said that the city inspired many of her writings. It is a green city surrounded by 326 acres of wetlands, fields, and wildlife. Elli is a primary schoolteacher. She is the youngest child and has an older brother. She said, “My fondest childhood memories are of summertimes at Yorkshire Sculpture Park. My grandparents would often take us there for picnics. It’s a magical place with five hundred acres of rolling landscape and nearly one hundred awe- inspiring sculptures. From a very young age, I knew that I wanted to be a teacher.” Alex is one of four siblings. He is the second eldest. He said, “My favorite childhood memory is of my father teaching me how to ride a bike. He was so patient with me. Every time I would fall off, he would help me get back on, balance me steady, and see me off. He never gave up.” Alex is a sailor and works on 30,000 to 40,000 ton vessels. His job keeps him out to sea for four months at a time. He then returns home for three months. He said, “I was working a 9 to 5 job and did not feel fulfilled. One day I realized that there was more to life than just punching the clock. I decided that I wanted to travel the world and live a more adventurous life through my work.” The hardest part of their relationship is the time and distance apart from each other. Elli said, “Having a good support system of friends and family while Alex is away helps me endure our time apart.” Alex said, “It’s similar for me, but my support system is the other sailors on the boat. We are all in the same situation. We all miss our families while we are at sea. Technology helps us to stay connected. It also helps that we are out there doing a job that keeps us very busy.” The couple said, “When Alex is home, we make the most of our time together. We don’t take it for granted.” Elli said, “My favorite thing about Alex is that he’s a planner and that he takes initiative to plan our future together. He is always planning beautiful adventures for us.” Alex said, “My favorite thing about my wife is that she is an amazing cook! I love her carbonara. When I am out at sea, I look forward to coming home to her, spending time with her, her cooking, and eating beautiful meals together.” The one thing the couple wants to tell the world is, “Be kind. It seems so simple but the act itself is truly profound. One simple act of kindness creates a rippling effect to which the extent can be life changing for some. Kindness matters” Thank you so much for visiting!