After spending approximately about 2,550 pesos (that’s actually a modest estimate; truth is it costs more than that because I don’t just go there for coffee, I eat too), I’ve been justly rewarded a FourSquare mayorship and a planner.

(Photo credits: Philippines.Starbucks.com)

Hooray for me (and the guy who makes all these possible)!

I know, a bit indulging if not downright insensitive considering how economies in Europe are crashing rapidly into a black hole of uncertainly.

See, some people smoke. Some gulp one too many alcoholic beverages. Some womanize like it’s the end of the world. And me, well…

I like limited edition planners.

Is it a sin? Maybe. But it’s not illegal so I’m safe for now. Maybe I’ll burn in hell later, just like that old planner-junkie before me. But hey, I’m in no rush.

So in the tradition of many irrelevant analogies: Just like the hunter who came home from an endless stake-out, and like that annoying man who brags about his latest “conquest”, allow me to delight you with my latest catch –

The Starbucks 2012 Planner

It’s not too big, not too small.
Not too heavy, not too tall.

Fits in my bag, fits in your hand,
Not too sweet, not too bland.

It’s made of wood, hard and strong
It’s not too short, and not too long.

What I forget, it will recall
When I’m at my wits end
and about to crawl.

But why no page to write my name?
Oh, have these editors gone insane?

What good is a planner that’s shiny and new.
If it gets lost and can’t be returned to you?

Perhaps it’s true, what people say
All you are’s a fad that will go away

But now that I have you,
I’ll overlook the dismay
You’re so dear to me to part with
So I’m afraid you’ll have to stay.

Below are photos of the new Starbucks 2012 Planner.

The Starbucks 2012 Planner comes in five (5) colors: Poplar, Bamboo, Cherry, Spruce, and Oak.    Of the five colors, I chose Oak – the darkest color. My planner goes where I go and I don’t want to worry about it getting stained in any way. Perhaps if I manage to complete another set of stickers, I’d get Cherry.

This year’s planner comes with the usual Starbucks coupons we’re used to. Blissful cards for coffee lovers.

Last year’s string bookmark with a metallic coffee-cup-designed end has been replaced with a cardboard this year.

The Starbucks 2011 and 2012 Planners, side by side comparison:

Yes, it truly is “bigger than coffee”. This font though eerily looks exactly like my handwriting.

The planner on top of my Asus Eee PC netbook.

It has a monthly view section for all your month’s sked in a glance:

A weekly view and a “notes” area:

A small monthly calendar over at the top right of every weekly view section to keep track of where you are in that month:

Month side tabs:

A pouch for your coupons and other small papers:

Planner back view:

Hey, it’s thicker than my netbook!!!

The pouch that comes with it is perfect for light travels like going to the bank, mall or any short-distance driving.

My essentials like lip gloss, sign pen, highlighter, cards (driver’s license, credit card/ATM card), house/car keys, iPod and USB all fit inside!

What’s to like?
1. Size and weight
2. Uncluttered design
3. Free carrying pouch
4. Environment-friendly

What’s not to like?
1. No owner identification section.

Final verdict: 4/5 stars.

If you’re an upwardly-mobile coffee and planner junkie by the slightest definition, the Starbucks 2012 Planner was made just for you.

The coffee may be expensive alright but just like anything in this world, you get what you pay for. And in this case, with a free planner, you actually get more than what you pay for.

Plus, you get to be charitable while indulging in your favorite brew because every planner redeemed translates to enriching children’s lives through the Starbucks Spark Hope program.