Great for large, young babies

At 5 1/2 months, my beautiful girl weighed-in at 20 pounds. The traditional Bjorn front carrier started to really hurt my shoulders. To add confusion to the mix, I have an outdoor-loving 2 1/2 year old who wants me to actively play with her...all the time. I needed a way to bring Baby outside to join in the fun, and I didn't want to haul an "Exersaucer" into the front yard, and I didn't want Baby in a swing all the time. Besides, Baby loves to be close to me, too.

I thought about a Maya-type wrap (for about a second), but I'm not a wrap kind of gal. I'm more of a techno-hip, minimalist-gear mommy who would love all of the gear in my girls' worlds could be from Scandinavia or Italy (but who can afford that), or at least look and function like it.

I started to research this, and found the Combi Baby Sling. I read the reviews, and found, as with most things, people either loved it, or hated it. I decided to take a chance on it. I've never written a review the same day an item has arrived, but WOW: I *love* this. It was an answer to my prayers! My shoulders were burning wearing the Bjorn.

Regarding how I feel wearing the Sling: my back feels relaxed and comfortable with Baby in the sling -- she now is close to 21 pounds, by the way. I am free to use my arms, and have a clear field of vision. I no longer feel top-heavy, like I was feeling while wearing Baby in the Bjorn. I can wear the sling more in the front, or to the side fully on my hip, or anywhere in between. Although I haven't used the pocket yet, it will prove useful on walks for my cell and keys. I don't know that it is of much use for more than that, though. The rain hood is really useful, and just so darn cute! I think I might even use that as a sun-blocker, too. It's pretty lightweight, so it shouldn't be too hot. I'm not sure I will wear it as a fanny pack on its own, but it could be used for that, I suppose. But the fact that it folds in on itself for storage is nice. Finally, the price is a bargain.

Regarding how Baby feels, let's just say this: she cried when I took her out. She RARELY cries. She is a very mellow child. That sealed it for me.

One final side benefit. The plastic case it is packaged in is now my 2 1/2 year old's "briefcase". She immediately put her baby dolly and snack in there.