Another year is circling around! The mornings are chilly, the leaves are falling, and it’s the time of year to give thanks for all we have (although I give thanks everyday!)
We have broken ground on our project in Picacho Mountain on Saltillo Place! 
This is a very special occasion! Why? The people, the place and the time and effort all of us have put into the planning of this home. It has been in the making for more than a couple of years. Mario began the project with the owners……He stepped on the property and proclaimed — “Oh, this is a challenge” —with a sour look on his face but quickly turned around with a smile and said “But I love a challenge!!” With his passing, the challenge continued in more ways than just the property. But with the continued commitment of the Oheim’s we have moved through those challenges and have begun the Project! The ground breaking, dirt work and slab pouring was Mario’s favorite part of building a home. He would be very happy to be starting this home. Max, Melissa & I are carrying that spirit and are also very happy to be building the Oheim’s Rammed Earth home! We will share updates throughout the next year.
We welcomed the new owner to her home in the Pueblos the last day of October. It was so clear that she was very excited to be moving into her new rammed earth home! 
As a matter of fact I think she wins the award for the most excited! Again, thinking back over the time commitment we all put in to make a dream home become a reality is very gratifying. Jean set her eyes on a piece of property through an internet search, found us and the land, and steadily made her dream come true. Yes, it did take a few years, but what the heck, the years still came and went, she just made sure she ended up with a Soledad Canyon Earth Builders Home! Now it’s just unpacking and setting up her Artist’s Studio and she can again continue her love of creating art. The studio was built on the South facing side of the home—passive solar heat gain throughout the winter months! Welcome home Jean!
We’ve had the pleasure of working with a few past clients over the last few months….doing maintenance work, fixing up, sprucing up, and a bit of some remodeling. It is nice to “go home”. Every home we have built feels like home. It is great to be a part of taking care of that home. Thanks to all who have provided that work for our crew of guys.
Remember to appreciate this time of year. As 2010 comes to end reflect on what is important to you and live with that thought.
Salud,
Pat Bellestri-Martinez
In Memory of our Founder, Mario Bellestri
“May his dreams of creating dream homes become our dreams”
March 1950-November 23, 2008