Thanks for sharing your experiences, a couple of things:
the glue isn't included due to being banned from air travel after 9/11, apparently it contains materials capable of being used as explosives, outside of FS's control unfortunately but you should be able to buy it at any kite shop/sailmakers/paragliding shop...
the steering settings make a big difference to turning speed, soft steering will make the kite redirect much faster but you will have to be careful not to pull the bar in too far and hold it, causing the kite to choke, time and patience will make this part easier.
jumping is tricky with the 17m, when you send the 13m and smaller kites you can really huck it like a tube and still get it together for landing, the 17m requires some restraint, send it less aggressively and you'll not lose control mid air, assuing thats's the problem, most people have it during their first sessions on FS kites. also lots of entry speed and pop will get you higher, then like you say you just float
like you say riding a fast board in light winds is essential, also having a smooth riding style will squeeze extra knots out of the low end
if you are in a confined space you can launch the kite at the edge of the window with no dragging, the technique is described in the manual and also on
http://www.foilzone.com
aside from those points have fun on the kite, although i'd say it sounds like you're already doing that