Things that have inspired me this week...

I can't tell you exactly when it started but I'm definitely feeling more inspired.

I ran a total of 34 km this week... yes.  And it wasn't freezing.  Double Yes.

I am exactly one week from hauling out my bike and getting ready to hit the roads again.  Big Sigh. YES.

I read this awesome inspiring post from Luisa and followed the trail through some of her links... yes.

I don't purchase much these days - thank you, paying down credit card debt and gettin 'er done - but I couldn't resist this and feel totally inspired every time I drink out of it... yes.

I took some ownership at work and 'brought it'.. so to speak.  Yes.

I had an epiphany regarding chocolate and it not 'owning' me anymore.  Subsequently, haven't had chocolate now for a total of 3 days.  That feels good.  I never had that much chocolate and it had to be dark and preferably with bits of sea salt.  Now I've decided that I can take it or leave it and I feel free... and lighter.  YES.

My chocolate epiphany has extended to a deliberate decreasing of sugar as well... yes *sigh*

I did however, get inspired when I took Kid #1 to the bakery that we frequent after her dance class - 'Dough' on the Danforth, people really... check it out.  Quaint, beautiful, great service, lovely baking. - to pick up this Date Square.  I have cut it into 6 pieces (and already eaten one of the pieces ;-) and it's still too much.  I hope that it lasts well because I think this will be my new treat food for the next 3 or 4 days.
It is a thing of beauty though... isn't it?

p.s.  I don't do enough with dates and used to have this awesome recipe for Date Spice Cake  - I think that I lifted it from the Philidelphia Symphony Cookbook many years ago when I was cooking for the couple in their eighties during my University years - I loved the recipe and have lost it.  If anyone knows of it please send me a comment and we'll exchange info.  I'm up for great ideas though.