AT WHAT COST?

I've been researching car seats lately, big surprise I'm sure. Anyways, Edward just turned eleven months and he's still in his first car seat. He has grown to despise it due to our last long trip to Chicago and back. I have been waiting for him to meet the forward facing requirements of being 1 y/o and 20 lbs. However, I don't think he nor myself can wait much longer.
I have already purchased a Britax Regent forward facing seat, (I got a killer deal on it or I'd probably not have paid the money). Anyways, he won't be able to use it until he's 22 lbs. and regardless, I need another seat for our second vehicle. So I'm asking for help on this one. I remember reading about this same topic awhile ago. I just don't remember who posted about it. At the time I didn't pay much attention, now I wish that I had.
My main concern is safety. Price, comfort, and ease of cleaning the material and strapping him in are also very important. What do you all think?

Chicago

We have been enjoying a week in Chi-town with Katy, Caleb, Abby, and Josh. We drove into town Saturday afternoon and have been all over the city in the last few days. Some of the highlights have been some fabulous restaurants, The Museum of Science & Industry, The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Planetarium, IKEA...etc. Its been a wonderful learning experience for Edward, my three younger sisters and myself. We have two more days to see Michigan Ave, Art Museum, John Hancock or Sears tower and whatever else will fit into our schedule. Edward has been quite the little trooper. He misses his Daddy terribly though. We look forward to his return on Friday night.
I'll end this little note with a prayer request for all our family members who are overseas. John of course is now in Poland. My brother is heading back to Michigan from Puerto Rico, and my parents are in Costa Rica for the next ten days.
Also, HAPPY BIRTHDAY COUSIN GRETA!!!! We love and miss you so much and hope you had a wonderful #1 birthday.

Edward learned something today...

Since John is in Europe all week, three of my sisters, Edward, and I drove into Chicago yesterday to visit our sisters Katy and Abby and their husbands for the week. We are having a GREAT time so far spending time with everyone and seeing the sights and sounds of Chicago. However, the most exciting event today was this...
We are so sad that Daddy wasn't around to see the first steps. Hope that this video helps since you couldn't be here. We love you soooo much!!!

Video for Daddy

This is what Edward's been doing today. He loves playing with his tractor.

I miz u Daddy

Jst writn to tell u that I miz u soooo much Daddy. I hope that u are havn fun in Germany today. Hav a safe flight to Austria. Call me soon. Luv u, Edward

I waz thinkn about u here and I waz very sad...

I wish u coud read mi fav book 2 me.

Herz a couple pics of my poor burnt little fingzr. They are feeln much betta now.


(He burnt them on a gas fireplace. Praise the Lord that they are healing fast and he doesn't seem to be in pain.)