Unlikely Sources - Uncommon Tools to Boost Creativity

I like to consider myself somewhat creative. I would also like for you to consider yourself creative as well.
And all who are creative (that's you and me) need inspiration from time to time.

I utilize many avenues to spark my creativity. Some are common: music, sunsets, conversations with friends. But I have found creative inspiration in some otherwise uncommon tools (at least for my profession as a pastor) that help me come up with clever ideas.

I'd like to share some with you.

1. StumbleUpon (www.stumbleupon.com)

A web service that allows you to select categories of interest and it will randomly find websites that fit your categories. You can "like" any site, share with friends, and keep a record of your favorite site. I find artwork, pictures, humor, and all types of creative energy from searching. (warning: may take up valuable hours of your time)

Once you sign up you can always add any of my posts to your feed. (shameless plug)

2. Eavesdropping 

Yes, your mom may have said it is rude but I can't tell you how many ideas I've used after overhearing bits and pieces of others conversations. Even an out of context quip can start you down a creative path. 

To clarify, I am not a creeper I just have excellent hearing :)

3. Food Network

Perhaps the oddest choice of the list. I don't cook too often but when I do I always cook like Bobby Flay. (My favorite chef, for all the uninitiated) It may be surprising to you but I find that I do some of my best work after watching cooking shows (I actually just finished watching Iron Chef before writing this). I get amped seeing chefs put a smattering of different foods together into one complete dish. Its like writing or designing - I see all these elements coming together to form, well, something. 

I don't think its particularly Food Network that is the reason for creativity I think it has to do more with watching a highly skilled operator work in his/her field. I know little about cooking so I don't focus much on techniques as I do about big ideas. Its this aspect that I think drives the creativity. Maybe its pottery, gardening, automotive craftsmanship but it could be anything that you encounter a master working in his or her craft that gets you to thinking. 

So there a short list of uncommon tools that stir my creativity. What are your favorites?