Intrepid Murmurings

Calling all parents...carseat assvice needed!
So, despite the lack of an adoption post recently (yes, there is one in the works, and no, no major developments yet) shopping has in fact commenced. Just for a few things! But I need some car seat help. I received some assvice recently (a shopkeeper from a very chic kids boutique, who immediately apologized for her assvice, yet seemed unable to help herself) that I should consider avoiding the infant-only carseats all together and just get a convertible. All I ever, ever see around is people carrying those godawful infant seats, the ones that can snap into strollers and such. And that people carry around while their baby sleeps everywhere, or sits in perfectly content. I hadn't considered not getting one, in fact, it seems everyone does. The shopkeeper said they hurt your back, and your baby grows out of it fast. And then (here's where I get all AP, a label I kinda dislike, as I don't think I fall into any "parenting style" yet, and I think they are rather divisive) there's the thought that I really don't want to lug my child around in a plastic thing off to my side everywhere I go. I have read things about how it is robbing children from the touch and closeness that is important for their development and well-being, and that makes a lot of sense. That and I think the infant seats are kinda ugly, as well as the strollers that go with them. But, I digress. The pro with the infant seats is that they may not wake up when you move from place to place. And that you have somewhere to put the kid, if you need/want to eat, or pee, or something, when you are out. That is appealing. The shopkeeper said that your child will learn not to wake up when you transfer. And that slings or regular strollers and carriers work too. That does seems reasonable. I do love the slings! I am plotting my purchases in that department as well! So. Anyone else think a convertible carseat may be the way to go? Am I insane to not get an infant seat/carrier? Is there something I've missed in my pros and cons? While we are at it, here are a few that I am considering. I like that last one the best.