visitor record and leaving canada?

Hi everyone. I am a US citizen and I have been in Canada visiting my girlfriend since November 2025. I applied for a visitor record in April, before my six months was up, and I just found out that my application was approved and my visitor record is valid until September 2027.

The problem I'm having is that I made plans to go back to the US for the holidays and stay for six months (I was under the impression that leaving for six months and coming back was the smart choice but I don't know anymore). I haven't left Canada yet, and I need to know before I actually buy a plane ticket whether or not it's even smart to leave at all.

What would happen if I were to leave Canada for any length of time and try to come back? Would my visitor record be invalid the second I leave? Or can I go back to the US, visit my family for the holidays, and then return to Canada? Would it help if my girlfriend comes with me? I need advice.

Thanks!