firstly, D_T_B, i hope that you keep frequenting this section of the board even though you choose to stop flying with EK. i enjoyed reading your trip reports and amusing comments.
the first meet-greet moment is when you step aboard the plane with your BP. on the lower right, most of the time it lists a portion of your skywards number and your level. i noticed that when the FT first takes your BP to tell you which side of the plane you're on and what direction to walk, he/she also will make a point to say, "welcome back, mr. dearbee..." i suppose they only say this for skywards members.
as for the purser greeting, i've never followed up on his/her offer of "please don't hesitate to let me know how i can assist you during this flight." i always have wondered what "extras" i can ask for, besides 2 drinks when my meal is served.