Another something to throw into the mix... If and when the new airport in Berlin opens, there seems to be some chance of a direct LAX-BER route opening up on LH.
While no one is holding their breathe over the airports opening, I think this is something I should take into consideration and I will be flying this route indefinitely until at least 2017. Maybe someone knows more about this proposed route as well?
You've all be tremendously helpful and thoughtful in your suggestions