I really should not get into these threads, but there are some misconceptions which are important to put straight.
1) You HAVE to read back a runway hold short instruction. It's the only thing you do have to read back when flying VFR, or I cannot think of any others.
2) If you are flying in VMC (as you are by definition when on VFR flight following), YOU are responsible for separation from other traffic. ATC will point out other traffic if they have time, but if you hit somebody after ATC have called them out, YOU are at fault - not ATC.
OK, important stuff to know.
The only thing you need to tell ATC when being handed over is your tail number and altitude. They need the altitude to make sure your mode C is working properly. All the rest is fluff. They usually know exactly where you are, and if they don't and they care about it they will ask you.
You have to tell ATC when you change altitude and that is all. If you don't want to continue flight following squawking 1200 is all you need to do, but it might be polite to let them know and say thanks. ATC are on our side and no reason to be rude to them.
You do not have to follow ATC instructions when on VFR flight following when in class E, and I can see that will cause an argument
If you don't like what ATC are doing cancel, but again you really should be nice to them as they are being nice to you. If they vector you they should say "suggested heading", and if you want vectors you should say "will accept vectors". They are under no obligation to provide you vectors in class E, and you are under no obligation to follow them. You would be a fool to ignore them though, and now I will be quoted FAR 91.123
VFR flight plans are only looked at if you are overdue. If you have Flight following you can let them know if you have a problem and help will be immediate so FF is a "really good thing". As you cannot guarantee flight following you should file a flight plan. They are very good if you are overdue and will start looking for you 30 mins after your estimated arrival time, so make sure you close it. It is not ATC's responsibility to do so.
Being pedantic here, but you are required to file a VFR flight plan if crossing the ADIZ. If you don't you WILL be surrounded by black helicopters and trigger happy marines when you land.