I'm a Canadian citizen (born and raised) and my boyfriend is American. I just finished college and I decided to come visit him for a few months before finding a job. I've been here since Dec 31 2007

I know Canadians are allowed to be in the US for 6 months, but I'm wondering if that is 6 months of a 12 month span or if it is 6 months at a time. So if I went back home for a day or two and then came back would that be OK?

We're talking about marriage in the future, so if I could leave for a few days and come back for a few more months, could we legally get married and could I stay in the country with him while the application is being processed? What if the processing time takes longer than 6 months?

We're probably going to call an immigration lawyer next week, I was just hoping to get an idea of what we could do now.

Thanks!

Why not go for getting a US citizenship?

Visa Waiver Program allows you to stay for 6 months without getting a visa
But the problem is immigration officers at every ports no longer allow you to
Return after a few days in Canada.

If you are thinking about marriage, it's best to get K-1, or K-3 which takes
Less than 6 months. Don't mess up with visitor's status so you won't need
Immigration attorney when it comes to adjustment of status. Good luck.

Just so you know... if you utter the word marriage to a border officer and then attempt to get married while visiting on the visa waiver program it will be denied. You may not use the VWP with the intent to marry and overstay. Just be careful what you say as it may be misconstrued.
Please consult an attorney... it costs money but it is the safest way to ensure thing go right. Good luck.