After conceding the fact that it would require a sizable cash store to continue using a car service for doctors visits, “field trips” and quick rides to see the family, Mum and I decided to get a car seat.
One of the first decisions we had to make was between purchasing an infant car seat or a convertible one. Convertible seats do offer superior longevity, while infant car seats provide a specialized fit and the ability to take the seat (baby and all) out of the car and leave the mount.
Ultimately we got lucky and found that Albee Baby was having a sale. One of the Graco infant car seats we had been doing some reading online and in the Baby411 book was priced just under $100. A “quick” hour and a half subway ride (weekend train service stinks!) to Amsterdam and 95th street later a Graco Snugride 32 Â (Gianni) was mine for $99.99 before tax.
Now we have a car seat to go with our newly approved zipcar.com membership.
On a side note, because of the size of the box, I tried taking a taxi home. What I didn’t realize was how close it was to the 5:00 “shift turn”*. After loading the car seat into the cab, I told the driver where I was going only to be told he couldn’t take me (he had to get the cab to his partner). He agreed let out near the 59th/Lex subway stop and started talking about the kids in his family. We were half way through central park when I realized he hadn’t turned on his meter. Instead of taking me for a ride over the price, he just took me for a ride to the subway – free of charge. I’m beginning to see that there’s something about kids that can bring out the best in people, even in NYC.
We should also mention how ridiculously well Kiddo slept while in the car and after. I think I now fully appreciate what suburban parents already know!