I now have a full understanding of the relationship between 1st, 2nd and 3rd cousins and what the term once or twice removed means, it had all been double Dutch before. This was explained at a family 'Leaving' party at the weekend for who I now know is my 3rd cousin. He is emigrating to Australia and wanted a FULL family get together before he went as in his words, "It will probably be the last time I see most of you." No expense had been spared, everyone was booked a room at the hotel and everything had been covered, he wanted no excuse for anyone not to attend!
I had not seen him since my early teens and most of the other relatives there I have never knowingly met. I was introduced to an 'Uncle Harry' who seemed to remember me and my sister from a family wedding when we were bridesmaids. My parents have no idea who he was or whos uncle he is but it seemed rude to quiz him over it.
On the Saturday morning, I had only time for a short run before we had to leave as the gathering started at lunch time. So, when we booked in and was told we had full access to the gym for the whole weekend, my eyes lit up. Sunday morning run may well be on the cards as I had brought my running gear just in case there had been somewhere to run.
I got up Sunday, quite early and found my way to the gym. It was not as large as I had expected with 4 treadmills, some stepping cross trainer things and a couple of rowing machines.
Two of the treadmills were in use, one by "Uncle Harry" who was going at a fair pace, and from the sweat on his shirt, had probably been going for some time. He had headphones in and was focused on his run and didn't even acknowledge I had entered. The next treadmill was occupied by a woman I recognised from the night before but had not met.
I got onto the third machine and started a walk and then increased the speed to a comfortable run. After about 10 minutes, the woman left and a couple came in, one got on the vacated treadmill, the other on a rower. I spent 45 minutes at running speed then slowed to a walk. Uncle Harry was still going strong.
I went back to my room, had a shower and got ready. My husband had go the little ones ready so we went down for breakfast. As we went past reception, there was Uncle Harry heading back to his room from the gym. He gave me a smile and a cheery "Good Morning" as he passed. I have no idea how old Harry is, but I am guessing early to mid 70's. Even if he had stopped running when I left, he must still have been at it for over an hour at what looked to be a very quick pace.
Most of the other elderly relatives I saw seemed to be discussing their ailments and comparing notes on the tablets they were on. It just amazes me that some people seem to refuse to get old gracefully and it seems to be the best way. I don't know if "Uncle Harry" is a blood relative, but if so, I hope I share his genes!!