Hi all,
Finally I did my landing last evening... My wife (who did landing with me) and two other friends went with me, one is Canadian citizen and other is Canadian PR.
We drove from Calgary to Kalispell via Fernie and entered the US through Roosville, BC. It was straight forward, no stopping at Canadian border. US guys asked about our hotel and other trivial things: carrying any fire arms etc. They gave us I-94 and asked us to return it within 6 months. We did some shopping in Whitefish and Kalispell and stayed in Kalispell overnight.
Next day we again did some shopping in Kalispell and headed back to Canada through Coutts/Sweetgrass border. It was 7 PM by the time we reached Coutts border. Our passports were checked at the drive through window. We told them that two of us were doing PR landing so they asked us to park and come into the office. We reported at the 'Traffic' counter. There was no one else except us. The guy was just neutral, no emotions at all. I was expecting him to smile a little, lol!!! Anyway, he went through our passports, asked us to sign the COPR declaration. My wife's visitor visa to Canada was refused once but we forgot to mention that in the COPR form. Later on it occurred to us and we rectified that in the form. The guy was little annoyed but said that he understands we wouldn't lie after reaching this point and didn't make a huge fuss about it.
He then congratulated us and told us our rights and responsibilities as PRs. I had a Goods to Follow list but he inquired why I didn't declare the items when I came as a student. He was not rude but firm on the questions. I and wife had to explain that we came as temporary visitors and now plan to stay in Canada permanently. Finally, he called up his superior and confirmed that we can declare all these in B4 form. We returned the I-94 as well. The entire process took almost 50 minutes.
One thing that we noticed, American side was too desolated from Kalispell until Coutts. There were dead towns and virtually no people for 3 hours before Coutts. We didn't find any McD or Subway etc. We joked that for Americans winter is too cold by the time they reached 49th parallel but for Canada life starts there
As soon as one crosses border, its like life springs up, all lights and lively towns.
All in all, it was smooth and without too much stress. I think I explained all the points but will be around to answer any questions!! You all were really helpful, thanks a ton!!
Good luck to all the people who are still waiting. Keep hope guys, your time is coming shortly too.