Well, guys, my journey has finally come to an end. Here's my timeline:
Feb 28: Application delivered (to Ottawa)
Mar 12: CC charged by Kelowna BC office
Mar 16: Passport shipped from Kelowna BC
Citizenship certificate shipped from Mississauga ON
Mar 21: Canada Post delivery notices left in my mailbox
Passport and certificate picked up at post office (signature required)
I never contacted IRCC. I never submitted a status request. My guarantor/references were not contacted. Total processing time 3 weeks exactly (13 business days if you exclude shipping time). I got the shipping information from the delivery notices that were left on my mailbox today, not from IRCC.
If you guys follow IRCC's instructions to the letter and are patient, your application should be processed smoothly. Good luck to everyone who's still waiting! all the best.