Your favorite Pokemon and you

So, when did you decide you actually had a favorite Pokémon and what was it that pushed your favor in it's direction?

My favorite, at least the one I think is my favorite the most, is Bulbasaur, and I often think that my love for him goes back to childhood when I saw the anime with Ash's Bulba and just found him insanely likeable. Funny, kind, stubborn and even a little pushy at times. He was perfectly balanced out and that kinda sealed my liking for all Bulbasaurs. Plus in the Island of the Giant Pokémon episode I found him so entertaining (particularly when it appears he's picking a fight with Squirtle, who is trying to calm him down). Then my love extended into the games.