Lovevook Backpack

 In May, we booked a 14 day trans-Atlantic cruise. I've never been totally happy with the bags I've used for carry on, and really wanted a backpack this time. I also thought it might be good for my work (substitute teacher). I started watching videos on long haul flights (this was my first!), and saw this backpack recommended a few times. When I first looked, there were all sorts of fun colours and striped patterns and I really wanted a pink and grey one. But I knew that was impractical! I opted for plum and black, in the 17" size.

Two days after I got it, I was working at a school and there was another sub there with the same backpack. She told me that she loves it for work. I haven't used it for work yet. I also saw several other people with it during the trip. One woman I talked to loved it but regretted getting a light colour.

I was a little worried because it's actually a bit thicker than what the airlines list as a personal item. As long as you don't overstuff the outer pockets, it's okay. Remember, with a backpack, everything goes to the bottom, and that's where the outer pockets are. If needing to put it in a sizer, shake it up a bit and make sure everything is spread out inside. It did end up being a tad too long for under the seat in front but it didn't bother me. I did also use it as a foot rest. The top handle was good for going up the plane aisle. Previously I had duffle bags and they were a pain, and my husband nearly hit someone in the face with his backpack when he turned around to talk to me in the aisle. I only used the sleeve for attaching to a suitcase a bit, I felt the handle on my suitcase was too flimsy.

I really liked the light inside colour. 

I did struggle with trying to stay organized because there are so many pockets! That's a me thing. 

Keep in mind, the pocket on one side is designed for tissues. That would have been great, since Rob got a cold, but it was also raining so not logical to expose tissues through the slot. It also means you have to be mindful of what else you put in the pocket because of the slit. It was fine for water bottles but I worried my little container of wipes or mini fan would slide out. 

To secure the top zipper, I used a mini locking double carabiner (bought at Sail, a Canadian outdoor equipment store). For the other zippers, I used a large, vintage, metal diaper pin and pinned the zipper to the fabric next to it. Don't count on the backside zipper to be hidden when worn, so secure it too. 

My husband didn't mind wearing it a few times, which was very helpful (especially since he's always asking for stuff I have in it, or wanting to add his stuff). 

I do wish the zippers had storm flaps and were a bit more substantial though. In the airport security coming back, I yanked on the top zipper (it can require two hands to go from the flap to the top), and the zipper pull flew off, the pin and loop going down into the conveyor. I can't fit my carabiner on it now, but I'm sure there's other options. 

So, I would recommend this backpack for work or travel. I've used it for overnight visits to my mom, and it easily held a change of clothes. Just be mindful of the lack of storm flaps and security.

Sky Zone "Sensory Sunday" Review

My son is proprioceptively hyporesponsive (among other issues) which has made him hold true to the "bouncing baby boy" cards. He bounces all the time. Not as much as before, but still a lot. And he turns 17 tomorrow!

Along with the proprioceptive issues were other things like sensitivity to sounds, lights, and smells. The only person I know that doesn't like the smell of baking buns at Subway! All these little issues are pretty big when you're a little guy, and we spent a lot of time avoiding places or modifying activities to keep him comfortable. Sometimes it was frustrating. Storytime at the library? He sat when the other marched, marched while they sat, played human bowling when they were supposed to be twirling. Etc. We missed out on a lot. Then add two more kids, and then a big move.

In 2014, I saw Sky Zone on "Undercover Boss". I had heard of Sky Zone but there wasn't any local to us. I was really impressed with the business after watching that episode! In 2015, one opened in Whitby. So even though my kids were now older (15, 12, 8), I was sure they'd still enjoy it. Me....meh. I'm not a jumper. Perhaps something to do with my body shape, LOL. Somehow I managed to convince the husband to take the three kids by himself.

They came back loving it, though Hugh said the music was annoying/too loud. For a kid with earbuds in all the time, he never talks about music, never wants to go to a concert, doesn't have a favourite song, band, genre. I don't know if he ever listens to music other than when we're in the truck.

Earlier this year, I heard that Sky Zone has special "sensory" jump times. Incredible. Where was this 14 years ago?! It's advertised as a "quieter, more relaxed jumping experience" with modified safety measures, less crowded environment, added staff to support all jumpers, and light and sound reduction.

I was invited to write about Sky Zone for this blog and I thought it would be awesome to check out the Sensory Friendly jump time. I know so many kids that would benefit. And not just kids--I'm one of those adults who doesn't do well in high energy environments.

At the Whitby location, the Sensory Friendly jumps are on certain Sunday mornings, 9-11am, (June 25th/2017 is the next one) and Monday afternoons, 3-7 (Monday June 5th is the next). Check the online calendar or call for more dates. On Sundays, they open to the general public at 10am and Mondays at 4pm. I arrived at about 10am on a Sunday to tour.

https://www.skyzone.com/ca-whitby
This photo is not totally accurate. Draw a line down the centre and ignore everything to the right. The court in the middle is dodgeball, and the main court, foam pit, and SkySlam are stretching back to the left.

The first thing I noticed when I walked in was the lack of music. I love music, but the combination of loud music and loud, happy children is too much for me. I had been into Sky Zone once before when my daughter was attending a birthday party, and it felt so bright, noisy, and overwhelming. It was none of that this time! The lights were dimmed to a comfortable level and it was not busy at all. I immediately relaxed.

For some great pictures and video of the actual Whitby location, click HERE. I like being prepared when I go new places.

Nicole gave me a tour and talked about the different zones and changes they make for Sensory Friendly jump times. There is a sign in the washrooms suggesting patrons do not use the hand dryers, because of the noise! Awesome! There were staff everywhere, interacting with kids, not just observing. There were only a few families there, so there was lots of space on the main court for the kids jumping. I also saw kids using the  SkySlam! area-- three basketball nets (different heights!), and saw the toddler zone. I could see into the foam pit and was amazed at the tiny little girl jumping in!

Photo fromhttps://www.skyzone.com/ca-whitby

I actually saw a child I know from my lunch supervisor job. I know he has autism and was happy to see him having a great time. I told him the next day that I saw him there, and he got SO excited. He says he loves Sky Zone, and his favourite is the "cheese pit". I assume that's the foam block pit!!  LOL!

One thing that would have concerned me when my kids were little was how to keep them all contained in one area. The layout is great though, and it would be easy for one parent to watch several kids while keeping an eye on the entrance ramp. I thought the ramp was awesome. Going up stairs can be tricky for little kids, or other people with spatial or physical impairments. I also noticed fluorescent tape accenting many features around the park. This is for their "Glow Party" nights, so you can still find things with the lights down.

There are activities on the main floor area, away from the trampoline, as well as a snack bar area with lots of seating. A good spot for a breather. 

I was even excited by the pricing. It's $6 +tax for 60 minutes and one non-jumping chaperone is free!

Normally, for open jump time, 60 minutes is $15.99 +tax. While Sunday mornings are not my optimal time for family outings, I would definitely consider going on a Monday. Many local support groups/services also co-ordinate outings, so if you're a member of any support group, ask about that. It's more fun to jump with a friend.

Waivers still need to be filled in (I'd do it online to reduce children's impatience once they get in there), and SkySocks are a must. If your child is sensitive to socks, I suggest wearing the SkySocks over their regular pair of socks. It took a bit of digging, but I also found that no outside food is allowed. Understandable, though frustrating for those on a budget. Really, for one hour of jumping, just have some snacks in the car. I assume there are water fountains though I will check.

I was really impressed with Nicole's enthusiasm; it totally matched what I had seen on Undercover Boss. Staff seemed happy to be there. I know Open Jump times might be different, due to the busyness, but if you're catering to kids with extra needs during Sensory Friendly jump times, you need staff that are approachable and excited to be there. If you're unsure if your child will enjoy it, at least it's not an expensive outing, and you're not committed to using up passes or coming every week at a certain time. Come once, and just be prepared for the big smiles, sweaty brows, and the constant question "When can we go to SkyZone again?".