Hi.
I have exactly the same question you had in 2011 but I didn't see any answer for it. I bet you already know the answer, please could you let me know what you found out? I hope you still read this message.
"My application for sponsorship was first submitted last Feb 2009, I got a letter from CIC last month stating they will start processing my application and required me to fill up forms IMM 0008, IMM 5406, etc to be submitted w/in 90 days. I am just wondering does that mean I am already approved as sponsor?"
mine was in July 2010 but I got exactly the same you got. and I am also wondering if I am already approved.
thanks a lot for your answer.
Angelica.