May 20, 2011 by Jay Dietz Construction.

Maybe the accurate way to say it is “winter seemed eternal”.  Of course it’s finally spring like weather, and we’re heading for Memorial Day.  I just didn’t have my thoughts focussed for adding another posting until now.  We have been scrambling trying to meet with people to give bids, get work done and line up the summer/fall.  Where were all the home-owners in January and February, when Jay was looking for work?  Now we are having to push people back or simply tell them “sorry we can’t get to it”.   Little jobs, like decks, wheel chair ramps, and roofs, and even some bigger framing jobs we’ve bid on.  We are also looking into building for the Mastels.  The plans should be done for that in the next few days.  Now, we just need them to choose a lot…not so easy since they are looking for rural, not too far out, and no flooding issues.  Jay’s sister and her husband have decided they will be needing a rambler floor plan, so we’re excited to begin working with them, so that they will be in their new home by winter. 

Jay has been super busy, but did take time this week to help the local cub scouts build a picnic table that has been placed at the Veteran’s Memorial in Mapleton.  I posted photos of that project in the People and Activities album.   I have also added a photos to the Projects album of the new roof on the Trautman’s home, the new vaulted ceiling in the Frost’s lake home, and the Shirley’s new window, painted siding and cedar shakes.   Sorry, no photos of the warehouse job that was mentioned in the last post.  I’m sure if I went back Glen would let me shoot some, but I doubt they would turn out well.  It’s a hard one to capture.   

Personal notes…Our family was very sad to learn that our 3 foster children would be leaving us.  They were able to return to their mom after being with us for nearly 2 years.  February/March was very hard for us, dealing with their transition, packing them up and saying good-bye in a way that didn’t traumatize any of the kids.  Fortunately, their mom has allowed us to have a couple of very brief visits, and seems open to me calling and keeping in touch with them.  I’m sure she understands at some level that we had developed very strong bonds with her kids, especially the youngest, who was with us her entire life.  So, after that heart breaking ordeal, our family agreed to take time off from foster care.  We are still getting used to being a family of 4 again, and the freedoms that allows.     We have been called twice already, asking if we are ready to take another placement, but I’ve held firm.  I know the need is great.  But ultimately, I need to know that our family is revitalized and ready so that we can be the best foster family/home possible.  I know many of you kept us in your prayers during this time, and that is greatly appreciated.

Please keep Jay Dietz Construction, Inc. on your mind, and help spread the word that good construction is affordable and that no job is too big or too small for us. 

 Carlita

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November 18, 2010 by Jay Dietz Construction.

I hope you are all happy and cozy, as this winter weather sets in.  We had such a beautiful fall, that hung on way longer than we’re used to.  With Thanksgiving nearly here, it’s easy to start jumping ahead to Christmas.  But, I rather prefer Thanksgiving.  We get to eat a lot of the same foods, but the focus isn’t on presents.  Way better deal. 

We usually try to remember and thank our customers during these last few weeks of the year.  So we’ll be out delivering goodies for many you.  Some of you will be getting extras because of your great referrals.  Always appreciated!  Jay is getting into another project for a new Americash location.  It looks like he’ll get to install bullet-proof glass AGAIN.   The warehouse project that I mentioned on the last post will be finished up next week when the special order door made of vinyl strips arrives.  (You know, like they use on walk-in freezers at restaurants.)  We’re also finishing up a shingling job for the Madsens here in Mapleton.  Yes, I said we.  I have helped nearly every day with the tearing off.   It’s just across the street from our house, and a nice flat roof, so I couldn’t resist. 

So, I’ve finished up my 2010 required continuing ed for real estate plus a few extra credits.  Now I’m scheduled for  a safety course on electricity, and renewing my CPR/first aid ceritifications.  I’m also scheduled to help the Realtors Associaion of F/M ring bells for the Salvation Army on Dec. 10th.   Jay and I are working on a benefit supper for our neighbor, who was lost his wife and was injured in a car accident on Labor Day.  That’s coming up 11/20/2010, here in Mapleton.  Otherwise, lots of Girl Scouts, some Boy Scouts, and 4-H stuff.  It’s nice to just be home some evenings.  The sad thing is, I know it’s just going to get busier as the kids get older.  Maybe that’s why some parents let their kids drive when their 14.

Count your blessings, give thanks, and remember those that might be lonely this holiday season. 

 Carlita

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October 6, 2010 by Jay Dietz Construction.

No, we haven’t fallen off the face of the earth.  Believe me we’re quite here, and busy as always.  We did find some time the past few months to enjoy a terrific family reunion and a couple of camping weekends.  Now, school is back in session, the kids are back into their routine, and we are busy trying to get things lined up for the winter.  The biggest, most exciting news is the Extreme Home Makeover that’s currently filming in Fargo.  Nearly every member of the Home Builder’s Association is participating, and its major chaos.  Jay was at the job site Monday and Tuesday, and played a critical role in preparing the basement foundation that the Grommesh’s current home was moved to.   Last night they replaced windows and doors, and that home will be great for another family to move into shortly.  Of course, the main focus is at the build site for the new home, with people working at warp speed to construct, decorate and move the family back into the home in 106 hours.   I can’t wait to watch when the episode is aired later this year.  They have live webcam footage I will try to link to our site for the last few days.  I’ll also add photos from Jay’s camera, since I haven’t done that for 6 months or so.   

On the business end of it, Jay has been all over the place.  New metal roofing for the Madsen farm outbuildings near Wheatland, a new roof for Ms. Leff, and a new garage and patio for Ms. Wegner, plus a few smaller fill in jobs.   Jay is currently doing a commercial job, framing in a room within a warehouse.   It’s quite a specialized project, with lots of learning along the way.  All of these jobs have come to us through referrals or repeat business.  Thank you for those of you that send good jobs our way.  Jay recently attended a full day of training on energy codes and up-dated residential building codes.   Earlier this spring I attended a full day training on the recent EPA regulations demanding that all firms that work around lead paint be educated, tested and certified.   The day was long, but I walked out with my passing test, paid my fees, and we are now certified.  I’ve also attended a 2 day workshop sponsored by HUD, USDA and EPA that focused on sustainable communities.  I chose to attend the city planning sessions and learned a ton about funding sources for projects. 

 Jay and I are still busy with City of Mapleton issues.  The planning and zoning committee has had several issues for Jay and the rest to discuss.  My spot on the City Council has proven itself to be demanding this past summer.  We have 2 or 3 meeting per month.  The good news is that we have pinned down our budget for 2011 and the Meridian Road project is nearing completion, both areas of major discussion on the council.   Jay and I love this town, and after 4 years we have definately planted our roots.  Our kids will be raised here, and we hope to see the town grow and prosper.  We do STILL have our spec home for sale, which breaks our hearts.  We have had an interested family, unfortunately we couldn’t come to an acceptable deal.   That neighborhood is filling in, a couple of houses each summer, so hopefully that will encourage shoppers. 

Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers these next few months.  I can’t go into specifics, but it has to do with our foster children that we’ve had for the past 18 months.  

Enjoy the fall weather while it lasts.  I know the kids always look forward to the first snow, but we’d rather not see it until Christmas.

 Carlita and Jay 

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February 19, 2010 by Jay Dietz Construction.

I know I write this every time…how time has flown since the last entry. When I look back to the past few weeks it’s been a blur.

Jay has finished up several framing jobs this past week, and is busy wrapping up the remodels for the Giengers and Leff families. Spring must be approaching, because we’ve been seeing more visits to the web site, and some people asking for bids for spring/summer projects. That keeps Jay running, since most people are available only in the evenings. There are always the referrals…and Jay loves working with people that come to us through referrals. They start with a positive attitude, and have heard all the good things about Jay and his work from their friends/family. We are hoping to build a nice big home for Dustin and his family in Abercrombie this summer/fall. We still have schedule openings, and can take another remodel or 2 yet before summer hits. Jay will be participating in the Tour de Habitat, a fund raiser for the Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity chapter, on March 6th by riding stationary bike at the Y to raise pledges for an up-coming project. He is on a team with several other builders. He’s also been training a bit to get ready for the Fargo 1/2 Marathon. His sister will be coming from CO to run with him. That’s set for May 22nd.

I began a “full time” real estate career with Coldwell Banker 1st Realty in December, and have been busy letting people know it. I have 2 listings and 2 buyer couples right now, but no closings yet. I was ready to make the switch from part time to full time anyway, but when I found out that the office I was working at was making big changes, I decided it was time to move on. Coldwell Banker is an enthusiastic office, full of nice people and some big hitting agents. I’m really hoping that one of my new co-workers will be able to bring a buyer for our spec. house in Mapleton. (Yes, it’s still available). I’ve recently attended continuing ed. classes to renew my MN contractors license, one day learning about foreclosures and short sales for my real estate continuing ed, and several days at classes to renew our foster care licensing. I’ve got to finish up the 2009 book keeping for the company, and get it ready for the accountant. (That’s a chore I always dread.) Otherwise, I’m still busy with the Home Builder’s Association board of directors and the Parade of Homes committee each month.

We had a fabulous time visiting CO just before Christmas and had a great Christmas break, inspite of the blizzard that his over Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Jay has had a birthday, Jesse’s is coming up on the 22nd and Danny’s will be the 28th. Rebecca will be turning 1 on St. Patrick’s day. All the kids are doing well in school, and growing up like crazy. Between the 5 kids, there is never a dull moment.

I’ve posted a few new pictures from Jay’s camera…a new garage and new porch for his mom and dad, the before pictures of the Leff remodel, and the completed shot of our spec house in Mapleton from last fall.  

Make a snowman, have a snowball fight or go iceskating. Make some fun memories with this weather.

Carlita

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November 19, 2009 by Jay Dietz Construction.

It’s well into fall, and we are amazed at how fast the months fly by lately.  I can’t believe it’s been 4 months since my last post.  I will give just a few updates, both business and personal…

Jay has been working without a crew or even a helper.  He’s been doing several remodels and is finding out that keeping several projects going at one time is quite chaotic.  We did a fabulous basement finish for the Brodersons in West Fargo.  After that was finished they replaced their furnace, added attic insulation, and remodeled their up stairs bathroom too.  He’s now finishing a laundry/bathroom for Mrs. Leff, 2 bathrooms for the Giengers, re-building a rotten porch for Ms. Lamb, and a light commercial job at a money lending store in Fargo.  He’d never installed bullet-proof glass before, so he can add that to his resume.   

We’re looking into winter with a nice hand full of framing jobs, and some work at my dad’s farm.  We’re still waiting for an offer to come in on our Spec house that we built in Mapleton this spring/summer.  That has us a bit discouraged/stressed.  So, if you know of anyone that wants to cash in on the recent tax credit extension for home purchases before 6/30/10, please tell them that Mapleton is a place to check out.  We love living and running our business here.  It’s a bit extra driving, but it’s worth it. 

On a personal note, we do still have the 3 children that we took in last spring in our care.  The 5 children are growing quite close, and the baby has definately captured our hearts.  It’s sad to say that things are still up in the air with regards to  reunification with their parents, so this placement will most likely stretch into  spring/summer.  Jay and I will be traveling with Oliver and Katrina to Colorado in December to visit Jay’s sister and her family.  We were lucky to find a terrific home for our foster children to visit while we’re away.  Everyone is telling us how important respite care is for foster parents, and now that we have this trip planned I am so looking forward to it. 

Thanksgiving is just around the corner.  We hope you will be celebrating with those you love, enjoying a good meal and relaxing over the long weekend. 

Love your life and share yourself with others.

Carlita     

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July 10, 2009 by Jay Dietz Construction.

Spring 2009 was terrible.  The flood, the rain, the cold crappy weather.  It seemed like summer was never going to arrive.  Well, we have just returned from our 3rd camping trip, and we were pleased to have summer weather finally. 

Jay has been finishing up the house that was supposed to be on the Parade of Homes in April.  Because of the flooding, we were not able to work in the home, or have any subcontractors in the yard/home for about 1 month.  Needless to say, we weren’t able to participate in the Parade, even though it was post-poned for 2 weeks.  So, plan “B” will have the house ready for the Fall Parade of Homes in September.  Hopefully it will be sold well before then, and perhaps even occupied by it’s new owners.  The kitchen was just finished yesterday, so once I am able to get over there and shine it up, I’ll be adding photos.  I love how it turned out, with dark wood this time.  I know, all the kitchens I do are maple, right?  Well this one is a very dark oak, with dark wood flooring and dark counter tops.  It’s stiking!

Jay has been busy since my last posting.  Along with the work on the spec house, he’s built a deck for Clementina, a garage and sunroom addition for Dorothy and Doug, and a few other small jobs involving windows and doors.  If I can figure out why the web site isn’t letting me log in to add photos, I’ll get some added showing his recent work.  He’s currently doing a garage addition on the house across the street from our spec house.  Our neighborhood is filling in nicely, with a great variety of home styles and colors.  Yes, I said colors.  I love it when the houses each have their own personality and COLOR!  Not every house on the block should be tan/brown!  

I feel the need to explain why it’s been so long since I’ve posted last.  Most of you probably don’t know that our family has taken in foster children.  We have been licensed since the end of March, and were immediately asked to take in 3 siblings.  They arrived shortly there after, and have been with us since.  It’s been a roller-coster ride of drama and of course it’s tough.  They are all doing well, and we are watching them grow and thrive.  It’s been rewarding, and I am so proud of Oliver and Katrina.  They have openened up their lives to their foster siblings and are sharing their parents and home.  The toughest part is the not knowing how it’s all going to turn out, how long we have them for, etc.   And, yes, our mini van is full with all 7 of us.

Take Care of Youselves and each other!

With Blessings,

Carlita 

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March 24, 2009 by Jay Dietz Construction.

We’ve come to expect it every year.  The spring thaw in the Red River Valley is news every year.  This year is proving to be historic.  The forecasts are grim, with flood stages on the Red River predicted to surpass the 1997 flood.  With the wet fall and the record amount of snow that fell in December, we all knew that we’d be facing a challenge.   If anyone was skeptical about Fargo taking on a massive diking project, I think they may be singing a different tune this week.  The forecast called for 1-3 inches of rain, and we have been on the lighter side of that, thankfully.  Out here in Mapleton, we are watching our dike carefully.  The Maple River is  inching up a bit faster than we’d heard predicted.  We’re pumping out yards and watching the ditches go down as the culverts start flowing. 

Our yard is high and dry.  You know Jay…he firmly believes the higher the better.  The house we’re building for the Parade of Homes is not faring as well.   We were hoping to pour the concrete for the basement floor and garage floor last week.  Unfortunately, there was about a foot of ice that just wouldn’t melt even with heaters going.  Then, things started thawing, and running into the basement.   Last I heard, we had between 3 and 4 feet of water to pump out.  If we pump into the street, it collects at the corner, which is already a foot deep.   So, we wait for the street to drain, and pray that the rain passes us by.   I’ve added a picture from last Friday, of the porch added on.  I’m hoping to get over there and get more pictures of the water fiasco. 

On a very sad note… Jay and I would like to express our deepest sympathy to Carol Loe and her family, as they mourn the loss of her husband, Terry.  We attend church with the Loe family and have gotten to know Terry very well.  Jay and his crew did a lot of work at their home last summer and they were great to work for.  Terry passed away this morning unexpectedly.  He had been taking treatments for Lymphoma, but seemed to be doing well.   Terry blessed our church last Sabbath, by praying for us at “prayer and praise time.”  He was thankful that he was able to be at church another Sabbath.  No one knew that would be his last prayer for us. 

We never know…what’s in store for us, how much time we have left, who will leave our lives unexpectedly.  The great thing is that Terry knew.  Terry had a very strong faith.  I’m sure he was at peace, hopefully holding his wife’s hand, as he smiled one last smile and looked towards heaven’s gates.   He knew that we’ll all be together again soon. 

God bless Terry and his family

 Carlita  

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February 16, 2009 by Jay Dietz Construction.

I completely missed January’s post, but I’ll try to catch everyone up on what’s going on.  Jay and his crew have completed the framing job for Kochmann Bros., in rural Horace.  That was a BIG one, with lots of extras.  Jay had a couple of extra guys on the job site to help out.  Thankfully there was not much additional snow in January, but they did have bitterly cold weather several days.  They found themselves working at the Hemmah’s project on those days, or at the Weible home in Grandin.  Both of those jobs are remodels.   I have added a few new photos of those projects on the gallery.

In other news, I have begun my term as a member of the F-M Home Builder’s Assoc. Board of Directors.  It’s been interesting, I’ve learned a lot, and met several new people.  It has occurred to me that there has yet to be a woman President of the local HBA, so I might set my goal for that.  I am specifically involved in the New Member Committee, which recruits and welcomes new members.   Recruiting is not so easy these days.  There are not many new companies starting up right now, so we have to go back to companies that have been around for a while, but have never joined.  I am also running for a seat on the Mapleton City Council.  Someone left their position earlier this winter, so a spot is vacant.  There are 2 of us that are running for the position, and the special election is on March 13th.  I have gone to the past several City Council meetings and have met lots of people since we’ve moved here a year and a half ago.  I don’t plan on going door to door campaigning, but I will be working on some posters, and a sign for our yard.

Jay has been working full steam ahead on our spec. house for the past week.  He was  a bit worried about getting it done in time for the Parade of Homes that will be the end of April.  That is until he saw how fast the framing is going.  They are already on the second floor, so I’m hoping he’ll have it enclosed by the end of February.  I’ll have new pictures to post by the end of the day.

I’m short for this post, but I’ll have more for March I’m sure. 

Don’t wait around to be blessed…BE A BLESSING!

Carlita

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December 12, 2008 by Jay Dietz Construction.

I’m behind schedule with my “monthly” posting, I know.  Things for us are busy all the way around.   This is NOT something we complain about, however.  We know that we are blessed, just keeping the jobs lined up.  Right now there are millions of people out of work, and yes, it’s being  felt  in Fargo.  We have tried ads in the newspaper and with Job Service in the past, when Jay has needed to expand his crew.  We never have gotten responses… until this past month.  It was incredible…the phone rang off the hook, and I was getting several e-mails from Job Service each day.  Obviously people are out of work. Other construction companies are laying off portions or all of their crews.  This is good news for us.  Jay was able to be picky about who he hired.  He went through a few underqualified guys, until he found one that can actually do what Jay expects an ”experienced” framing carpenter to do.   

Work wise, Jay is framing a new custom home for Kockmann Bros.  It’s good timing for us, since the shingling jobs have come to a seasonal end, and this is a nice big home that will keep Jay and his guys busy for several more weeks.  Jay is also slipping in days here and there for the Hemmah’s.  There project needs the interior framing finished up, and the custom windows/doors should be arriving soon for installation. 

Some exciting news for us…we have started another house project.  No…It’s not for us.  We are never moving again…at least not with-in ND.  We are taking a big chance, and building a spec. home here in Mapleton.  We are being reasonable in size and price, and have picked a great lot to build on.   It is directly east of our house, about a block or so, which will make it very convenient.  We did not want to miss the up-coming spring Parade of Homes, so we have just had the basement concrete poured, and will put it up for sale next week.  If we’re lucky enough to find buyers for it right away, we’ll finish it.  If not, we’ll get started on it in February, in order to have it done for the Parade by the end of April.   There is a photo added to the gallery, of the basement concrete forms set up.  The concrete has been poured, and Jay will get the trusses on to cover up the basement ASAP.

I’m predicting that I won’t be adding another blog yet this year…

so Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours.

In this time of economic turmoil, take the time to really count your blessings.  There are always people less fortunate than you, and you’ll most likely always have enought to share.  So, be generous.  I believe with all my heart that God multiplies the gifts that we give to those in need and that He blesses those that bless others.

Carlita

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December 12, 2008 by Jay Dietz Construction.

I had set this card aside, always intending to post it to the web-site.  It’s a thank you card from the Schultes, for whom Jay and his crew built a new double stall garage with a covered porch area on the side.   There are pictures of it posted on the photo gallery too. 

 Jay & Company,

Thank you so much for  building us such a well-needed and functional garage.  It truly is a one-of-a kind - and we are very proud of it!

Thanks too for putting up with all of our last minute changes.  I love my patio -it’s just the way I invisioned the look.  I will definately enjoy it for years to come!  I love all the details.

You are an amazing c0ntractor, I would recommend you to anyone.

Thanks again for your time and talent.  You have made us the envy of the neighborhood.

With gratitude, 

Dave and Joy Schulte

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