Per your graphics issues, try installing gfxCardStatus[1] and watch for if/when ...

driverdan on April 29, 2013 | parent | context | favorite | on: Fix random few-second freezes in Mountain Lion

Per your graphics issues, try installing gfxCardStatus[1] and watch for if/when it switches between integrated and discreet. I've found the integrated Intel graphics to be slow for OS GUI stuff like "reveal all windows" but discreet video is fine.

It will also let you choose which GPU to use which is useful for testing.

[1]: http://gfx.io/

atombender on May 2, 2013 [–]

Thanks. I always run with the automatic graphics card switching disabled.