Since this is my first non-V8 and non-naturally aspirated vehicle, I'm trying to figure out if I have an issue or not.
With 3K on the odometer, it just doesn't seem like I'm feeling the "pull" when I pull out on the main drag with 3/4 pedal. I used to feel being pushed back into the seat a bit when the boost kicked in, but now I'm not feeling it. Yesterday a V-tec Civic started screwing with me and just seemed very laggy with the pedal response, even with keeping the r's up in I. So this morning I did a couple dead stop WOT launches and the boost just went to 11, then suddenly spiked to 16 and quickly fell back to 11 before shifting to I.
Cause for concern?

 

Check the tubing that goes from the turbo to the Inter-Cooler (IC), and also check the IC for cracks on the plastic ends. Sounds like you may be loosing some boost. There are several on this site that have had issues with those parts leaking.

 

this i problem i had

your description is the way mine started

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/hhr-ss-45/no-boost-problem-vacuum-problem-18710/

once they rerouted the vacuum line all was good.

maybe this is your problem?