Some cities are more bike friendly than others. Kansas City isn't known for being bike friendly although, as you know, getting honked at once in a while, drivers being afraid to go around, drivers getting a little too close, or simply drivers honking because of the 'old school' mentality that they just want to alert you that they are there, is all part of the game.
I do the same. I wave at motorists if the give me right-of-way. They are turning left and could easily cut me off...but they patiently wait. I'll wave with a small 'thank you'.
I also wave at the ones that honk, get too close, or cut me off. However, those drivers only see the wave. They don't hear what I'm saying under my breath!
Agreed. It breeds a less stressful attitude by all.
Jerry H