My first trip on her was back in '99 and was a fluke.
I was traveling LAX-MSY on an A320 in first via the old 500 mile upgrades when it cancelled about an hour before departure due to a MX.
I was in the RCC when the announcement was made (remember those? actual announcements?!) and when I spoke w/the agent about rebooking, she was halfway through confirming me via Houston. I wouldn't be responding to this thread (or obviously a Flyertalker) if I didn't already know that there was a 400 departing in 45 minutes to IAD and a connection from that down to MSY.
While she thought I was nuts for wanting such a ridiculous routing, she tapped away and booked the last C seat in the UD.
I can remember the sense of elation I had as I climbed the staircase and settled into my window seat. I don't think a smile ever left my face as we flew across the country that day.
I flew her again many times, but you never forget your first time...