What's the difference between a first cousin, a first cousin once removed, and a second cousin?

Answer 1

okay, heres the way i understand it. try to stay with me.
1st cousin- siblings have kids. those kids are 1st cousins to each other.
once removed-a 1st cousin has a kid. that kid is once removed from the other 1st cousin
2nd cousin- each 1st cousin has a child. they are 2nd cousins to each other.
confusing. isn't it?

Answer 2

I believe the difference lies in the felony degree you can be charged with when you get married. :)

But I'm just guessing.