I got the modosteady from manfotto in the meantime, ... really hard too, maybe even harder than yours!
I think the xacti`s vertical pistol-grip-design is difficult with a steadycam, especially with a large lens adapter in front. But anyway, I like the modosteady for it`s 3 in one solution (the shoulder support is the best) and the folding thing is good for travels.

with the letus mini 35mn adapter that I will order and old canon lens I have, the xacti will gain weight and will be certainly more easy to handle

I hate to see that umbrella deal die. I thought that was cool. C'est la guerre.
Nevertheless, keep trying with the Mini Motion-Cam. Everyone I've heard says it is a skill that takes time and has to be learned. You'll get it eventually.

This looks like a truly wondrous location :-)

Many people said that this place is a must see for all Japanese, and I was lucky to be guided to that place