Max is 9 months old

Max turned 9 months old on the 7th of this month. Of course, I didn't get pictures that day so here are a few from the last two months. There are more on Facebook.

Max snuggling after getting home from going out. He was really tired.

The dogs wanted Max to pet and play with them the other day. They draped themselves all over him trying to get him to pet them.

Stats at 9 months old:
Weight: 19 lbs. 13 oz. 35%
Height: 29 in. 72%
Head: 18.5 in. 89%

Please Advise

What is the best way to take a 9 month, 20+ lb. child (is he still an infant??) through a couple of airports by yourself? Do I take my big Graco stroller, get a small umbrella stroller, use my hotsling, or use a Baby Bjorn???? Any suggestions? also - any suggestions on flying with a 9 month old are welcome too.
PS I am going to NC to see family in March but Chris can't come because of work. Usually it is a nonstop flight but this one has connections both ways. It is about an hour's layover. I'm going to check my luggage but still have a carry-on.

I was tagged in facebook for two lists but I'm going to do it here. The second list will come if I ever finish it.

It's harder than you think. Here is what you are supposed to do - copy and paste into your own note, type in your one word answers.
where is your cell phone? - table
your hair? - brown
your father? - smart
your favorite thing? - Max
your dream last night? - hmmmm
your favorite drink? - depends
your dream/goal? - succeed
the room you are in? - dining
your fear? - heights
where do you want to be in 6 years? - anywhere
muffins? - blueberry
one of your wish list items? - treadmill
where you grew up? - Maryland
the last thing you did? -played
what are you wearing? - pjs
your tv? - einstein
your pets? - dogs
your computer? - laptop
your life? - happy
your mood? - hungry
missing someone? - Mom
your car? - Honda
favorite store? - GAP
your summer? - hot
your favorite color? - blue
when is the last time you laughed? - today
last time you cried? - unsure
three people who email me? - church, Argentina, Kathy (from flyball)
three of my favorite foods? - chocolate, Italian, pizza
three places I would rather be right now? - beach, NC, w/Chris
three people I think will respond? - whoever wants to