Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheila Strickland.
Hi Sheila, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have been a photo consultant and project advisor since 2002. I have completed over 100 memory albums for family and clients. I have been a seamstress since I was a child, but began quilting in 2016 when I needed to cover the 29 beds in Welcome Home Retreat quickly.
Welcome Home Retreat fulfills my dream of providing a venue where guests are inspired to begin, continue, and complete projects, preserving memories for generations to come. Guests are welcome to bring all kinds of craft projects or just come and relax.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
We purchased Welcome Home Retreat on July 1, 2016 and opened it after some minor remodeling in October, 2016 to host up to 29 overnight guests, so it was a quick adjustment to change the original purpose as a family residence into a craft venue for guests.
In March, 2020 we experienced the national crisis of COVID-19 that required closure for 2 months, then modified regulations for a few months following. That period caused great financial stress and loss.
Then in February, 2022 our area of Texas experienced a weather phenomenon of extreme cold that caused loss of power for approximately 2 weeks. The well that provided water for the retreat was frozen during that time. Then the resurgence of power caused the water heater lines in the ceiling to fail resulting in flooding and, ceiling, floor and wall damage. Again, a 2 month closure to repair damages resulting in yet another financial stress and loss.
Our guests have proven to be faithful even during these challenges, returning and bringing new friends.
We had a management change in 2024 that included the addition of our current chef who continuously surprises us with culinary delights.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My professional career was an accountant, first as a 20 year career in church administration and financial responsibility, then another 20 year career as Comptroller for a petroleum consulting firm. All these years of accounting and financial responsibilities afforded experience in the business world while providing the freedom to have creative time.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Serving other people and inspiring them to be creative and honoring their families brings me immense satisfaction.
Pricing:
- jen@welcomehomeretreat.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.welcomehomeretreat.com
- Facebook: WelcomeHomeRetreat
