Inspired By

When I saw the theme was Maps for this week’s Inspired by Challenge, #IB406, I felt completely justified in saving the old maps my husband was going to throw out. Perhaps you also hoard things thinking they’ll come in handy one day for a craft project? It’s so satisfying when you realize you have just the right application for them.

I created His and Hers birthday adventure cards for my daughter and son-in-law. Their birthdays’ are one day apart and they always go on an adventure together (we get to have the grandkids). This year, they are heading up to Northern California and beyond. Have you ever traveled Hwy 395 along the Eastern Sierra Nevadas? The desert turns into gorgeous forest and lakes along the journey (traveling south to north).

The “His” card was created with my July 2025 Hero Arts Card Kit of the Month called “Let’s Go.” I’m so glad I finally had an opportunity to play with it.

The “Hers” card was created by piecing together pieces of the California map, so you definitely don’t want to follow this map. I used Papertrey Ink products to create this beautiful forest. The forest dies are called Through the Forest, florals are Into the Blooms: Mixed Bouquet, and both cards have sentiments from the Destination Sentiments Stamp and Die Collection.

I’m eager to see how the theme, colors, or sketch inspire you this week. ~MarDi