So the update is that they tried to deliver the passport today (On December 15 ahead of the date given which was given to me at the appointment --December 18). I missed the delivery so I'm picking it up tomorrow.When I went, they recommended pick-up. They said that Canada Post may be delayed due to the holiday season. The agent saw that I had travel plans for Dec. 30. So, I guess that is why they recommended it. I had an appointment on Nov. 30, and they told me to come pick it up on Dec. 14 (i.e. 10 business days later).
When I had gone to the Passport Office the agent who recommended that I let them mail it, said that the passport gets mailed out as soon as it is printed. So for my case, the passport was printed and mailed and almost delivered today. Which is ahead of schedule.
My recommendations for other people is to ask the agent what they recommend