I'm completely with you, EBannion. I never subscribed on a month-to-month basis. I knew I was going to get a lifetime from when I was playing Open Beta. I like not worrying about ever having to pay again. Even if for some reason I tired of the game and quit it, I've already gotten plenty of enjoyment from the game to justify it and the peace of mind without worrying about the monthly payments.
However, if I were considering buying this far in, there would be all new factors to consider. Part of me would think, "I've been here for a year already, so I might as well keep going that way." But you also know your playing habits, how fast new content is coming out (and should be a little faster in the future since a lot of the blatant bugs are now gone), what type of content is coming, and how long that might be able to keep your interest.
But for me, lifetime was the way to go. Plus I like the comm badge I get. :)