Kindle Fire Not Recognized when plugged into PC
The instructions I have followed in the link above do the job. The solution to my two problems listed above was:

Replace this Micro/Mini USB to USB adapter

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Rocketfish%26%23153%3B+-+1.5%27+USB+Cable/1000247.p?id=1218207305639&amp;skuId=1000247&amp;st=RF-CC1MC&amp;cp=1&amp;lp=1

...with this one:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Rocketfish%26%23153%3B+Mobile+-+Micro+USB+Data+Transfer+Cable/2077196.p?id=1218308698225&amp;skuId=2077196&amp;st=rocketfish%20micro%20usb%20&amp;cp=1&amp;lp=3

It sounds weird but trust me do not get Micro USB to USB adapter from the first link. You will not be able to access the Kindle Fire as a storage device, guaranteed.