I’ve had two fantastic conversations over the past couple of days. I mean, I’ve had loads more conversations than that. Many of them fantastic. But two in particular made me realise, a) how many things I’m a part of, and b) how nice it is to be a part of things.

These conversations were both with women I’d never met before. The first of these women approached me in Starbucks, moments after I’d been staring, jealousy thinly veiled in awe, at her impeccable combination of dungarees, massive thick-framed glasses, bright red lippy, and shaved head. She was totally rocking the ‘she must be a celebrity’ look. Were I to attempt the same, I’d be lucky to be mistaken for Andy Pandy. Anyway, turns out we did have something in common. Unfortunately not our sense of style, but she came over to ask how my treatment was going, as she’d also had treatment for breast cancer. Successful treatment. A few years ago. Good news on all fronts. I can now aspire to be just like her. Stylish, cured, and an inspiration to others. Oh, and the sort of woman who can approach random strangers in Starbucks without appearing at all unhinged.

The second conversation was with a woman at the stables. She was unnecessarily and unexpectedly helpful, kind and funny. She complimented me on my ability to carry off the unlikely combination of bald head and no eye make up (an undeserved but nevertheless welcome compliment), and introduced me to her horse, who promptly made a valiant attempt to eat my hat and gloves.

So that’s two clubs I’m in, one that I didn’t even choose to join, but both of which I’m very glad to be a part of. I’ve also joined the Really Badly Drawn Eyebrows club today. That one hasn’t been quite so positive so far, but there’s still time.