Nice report so far! I also went to Hawaii over New Year, although the high hotel prices scared me over to the neighbouring Big Island (KOA). I have to ask, why were you at LAX so early in the morning? Getting to the lounge for 0520 for an 0805 departure seems like overkill? Seems like you missed out on (at least) an extra 90 mins in bed?
I too was midly impressed with AA. I was expecting the worst from the crew, but was quite pleased with the experience.