Being a new mom is a whirlwind. Sleepless nights, thousands of diaper changes, and the constant hum of figuring it all out can leave you feeling like you’re navigating uncharted territory. In those early days, finding the energy to leave the house, let alone plan an adventure, felt like climbing Mount Everest. But I knew I wanted to create special memories with my son, and show him the vibrant city of Los Angeles, even when he was just a little guy!
That’s when Google Maps became my secret weapon! Instead of scrolling through endless lists of “kid-friendly activities,” I started using it to chronicle our culinary adventures, one delicious stop at a time. I’d search for cafes, bakeries, and casual eateries within walking distance, creating a personalized map of our edible explorations. Since I started making my special Google Maps List, my son and I have walked 1,500+ miles together in the stroller and carrier.
So here’s what I did. I made a Google Maps List called “Wicklow and Ashley’s Snack Map” where I documented every place we stopped for a snack on our adventures. What started as a simple way to find a place for a mid-morning snack quickly turned into a beautiful ritual. We’d lace up our walking shoes, pack the stroller, and set off on our adventures.
Some days, we’d wander for miles, covering 10-12 miles as we explored different neighborhoods. My little guy, strapped safely in his stroller, became a seasoned traveler, absorbing the sights and sounds of the city.
Google Maps became more than just a navigation tool; it became a visual diary of our shared experiences. Each pin on the map represents a memory, a taste, a moment shared between a mother and her son. From the best chocolate chip cookies in Silver Lake to the most delightful avocado toast in Santa Monica, our map is filled with stories.
It’s amazing to look back and see how much we accomplished together, even when he was so tiny. Over 83 pins mark our journey, each a testament to the power of a simple walk and a shared meal.
Why Google Maps Became My Mom-Life Savior:
- Ease of Discovery: Tired mom brain? No problem! Google Maps made it easy to find nearby places with just a quick search. I also keep a list of potential adventures for us to do together, including parks and museums.
- Walkability Focus: We prioritized walking, turning each outing into an opportunity for fresh air and exercise!
- Visual Record: The map became a tangible representation of our adventures, a keepsake we can cherish forever.
- Flexibility: Whether we were craving a quick snack or a leisurely lunch, Google Maps helped us find the perfect spot.
- Building Memories: It was a way to start building memories from a very early age.
More than anything, these walks and culinary stops were about bonding. It was about showing my son the beauty of our city, the joy of discovery, and the simple pleasure of sharing a meal.
If you’re a new mom feeling overwhelmed, I encourage you to grab your phone, open Google Maps, and start exploring. You might be surprised at the adventures that await you, one step and one delicious bite at a time. It encouraged me on those super early mornings…the motivation of a yummy breakfast and a rejuvenating walk!
Tips for Creating Your Own Culinary Adventure Map:
- Create a “My Map” in Google Maps: This allows you to save and organize your favorite spots.
- Use Lists: Organize the spots into lists such as “Best Snacks” or “Lunch time favorites”.
- Add Notes and Photos: Include personal notes about each location and upload photos to capture the memories.
- Share Your Map: Share your map with friends and family to inspire their own culinary adventures.
- Search for “Kid Friendly” places: Google maps allows you to search for places that are kid friendly.
This post is dedicated to all of the Local Guides who are Moms. It’s been an honor to be a Local Guide with Google Maps for the past 9+ years in my hometown of Santa Monica, California. Being part of this community has truly deepened my connection to my city and transformed how I interact with local businesses…and my amazing son. I love to explore the world with him!
happy guiding 
Have a great day!