Tis the season to drink more coffee (falalalala-lalalala)

For the past two years, I've had the privilege to start getting all Christmas-y as early as June. This is normally when we begin planning for the upcoming activities to perfectly bring the Christmas cheer to all Starbucks Coffee customers all over the country.

Looking back, I realized how much I love the excitement that setting up an in-store performance brings. I can still remember the first time I saw my Giant Red Cup standing tall and proud at the entrance of Starbucks 6750. Lastly, this is only the time of the year when I would allow myself to indulge in the yummiest Christmas drinks and treats at least every other day! Oh how I miss doing all those things..

However, life dictates us to move on and so I did. This year, I'm back as a loyal customer who, just like the rest of the world, made sure that I drop by my favorite coffee shop on the day that they introduced their holiday drinks namely: Toffee Nut Latte, Praline Mocha and a newcomer by the name of Dark Cherry Mocha. I surveyed the pastry case and drooled at the sight of almost a dozen new food items (the White Chocolate Sans Rival and Spinach Pie looks yummy!).

It was early in the morning and I was surprise to see a line forming inside the store by the counter. Guess I'm not the only fan here. I didn't mind the wait though as I was busy looking at the new merchandises from the sparkling red tumbler to the cute reindeer stuffed toy which I think little Julia will love.

Finally it was my turn, I gave the barista a smile and said:

I'll get a short non-fat toffee nut latte please..

She repeated my order, told me the total amount and presented me with the card that marks the start of my caffeine overdose for at least a month.

Planner Addiction

Five years ago, I was studying for an exam in my favorite Starbucks Coffee branch in Ashcreek when a friendly barista named Jen approached me and told me to come back the following day. Instinctively, I asked why. Just like how a friend would share a secret, she told me in a very quiet voice that they will be launching a really nice planner with tons of surprises inside. I love surprises and so I took her advice and went back the following day.

After buying a tall Toffee Nut Frappuccino, I was presented with a red card with a stickers on it. Jen explained that I have to collect a certain amount of sticker and soon I'll have my planner. I was hesitant at first, thinking I will never be able to complete the card.

Let's just say, I was wrong and that was the start of my Starbucks Planner addiction. Every year for four years, I proudly carry with me the planner that holds my daily schedule and scribbles on random thoughts.

It's that time of the year again, I notice that the 2009 planner sports a different look. It's simple and handy, it also comes in three different colors! I like the red planner the most because it looks very classy and stylish at the same time.

Looks like it will, once again, be a caffeinated Christmas after all!