How to Be a Great Aunt

There are a few ways to become a great aunt. They generally involve having a sibling, or a sibling-in-law who is a grandparent. Many, many people become a  'great aunt'. However, very few achieve this lofty status at the age of 23.

Sarah, my great grandmother, was accomplished at many things. She was a great cook, a fantastic baker. Her hands were never idle, and she knitted, crocheted, and sewed. She also had a talent for making babies. Sarah was married at 18, and had her first baby at 19. 

Annie was the eldest of Sarah's children. She followed a similar pattern to Sarah, she was married at 18 and had her first baby, Charlie at 19. 

My Grandpa was the tenth baby born to Sarah, and was delivered by Annie. (Annie delivered the last three of Sarah's children. Each of these children became uncles and aunts at the moment of their birth. When my Grandpa was born he became uncle to  4 year old Charlie.

Charlie grew up. he met and married Isobel. Likewise, Grandpa also grew up and in due course met a lovely woman, my Grandma. On the day of their married, Charlie kissed the blushing bride, and addressed her as 'Auntie Jean'. She was not impressed. Charlie (five years her senior) took every opportunity to call her 'Auntie Jean'.

Six months later, Isobel was delivered of a bouncing baby boy. Charlie took great delight in introducing David to Jean, saying 'Here is your Great Auntie Jean'.

And this is how my Grandma became a Great Aunt at the ripe old age of 23.