I have traced my provable ancestry back, mostly on my mother's side, to the early 1500's and unprovably, but because the surname is unusual and most of us originated from one small Yorkshire village, back to 1300's via a Poll Tax record.
When I look at the huge scroll of my ancestors and know there are many more on Dad's side and beyond, it amazes me that there are only 3 of us left!
I have recently traced a first cousin still alive and I value her very much. She's just become a grandma so I suppose I have a 2nd cousin twice removed
I wish I could afford a DNA test because I'd like to know if I have more relatives anywhere - but please not aristocracy or royal, I couldn't bear that.