Passed IPPT!

Went for my IPPT test yesterday morning. Been training for the last couple of months but still wasn't very confident of passing. Nevertheless, decided to go for it... But, Praise the Lord! I passed it! Nearly obtained sufficient points for a silver ($100) :-P

One lesson I found to be true for this episode, mental preparation must be done in tandem with physical preparation. Although I have been training physically for the last few months, my confidence level was lagging behind as chin-up is my weakest station. Thankful for the word of God during the cell group meeting that encouraged me to look to God; to know that I can do all things in Him; to know that He empowers me (2 Cor 9:8, Eph. 3:20). The word came to me at the right moment. So, I envisioned my IPPT victory that morning; I participated with all my strength and mind; and I got it!

Combating Rising Utility Bills!

Just received my latest utility bills recently & was shocked to see about 25% increase compared to my monthly average! For those of you who are still unaware, the Singapore Power has recently revised upward the utility rates again in view of the rising oil price. With the steep oil price affecting transportation and utility costs which are part of our daily essentials, My family & I have adjusted our lifestyle in a couple of ways to combat the rising expenses.

For transportation, we have cut down drastically on cabs and have learnt to plan our time better in order to leverage on the public buses. I find the IRIS system provided by SBS useful as you can sms to get an estimation of your bus arrival time. Furthermore, I do planning for my work, read or listen to sermons on my ipod during my bus journey so that the traveling time can be made more useful and purposeful.

As for utility usage, I have gained a habit to shut down power for appliances after use. Especially when I leave for work in early morning, power to all unused appliances are shut off. Studies have shown that we can save quite substantially just by shutting off standby power to our TV, radio, internet, computers etc. I have also became more conscious when I replace my light bulbs at home by purchasing energy efficient fluorescent bulbs.

Just today, Aileen & I decided to pop by Metro to buy a Thermos kettle to replace our current electric airpot. Decided to go for the switch after reading an article in the newspapers that one can save up to $20 monthly just by changing to a Thermos kettle (if you usually keep your electric airpot on for 24 hours daily). Will keep all posted whether this is true :-)


The current rising cost of energy does make people more conscious of their energy usage and adjust their lifestyles to curb wastage. Seems like a good thing too as we must learn not to take things for granted...