My mindset is largely the same as yours. I follow the law as far as right of way, ride predictably, etc. If a driver is particularly courteous, I wave and shout "Thank you!"

There are a few things I do to draw attention to my presence. When I take the lane at a stoplight or stop sign and I have to stop, I flap my arms like a large bird. It looks silly, but it accomplishes two things: it makes me more noticeable, and it stretches out my shoulders. The other thing is to sing audibly. Again, silly, but I believe I've caught the attention of drivers who didn't seem to be paying attention to anything. I often get smiles from drivers when I do this.

Of course, I _do_ live in the San Francisco area; so odd behavior is pretty much the norm.