Some weeks feel especially full. Full of work, full of hope, full of stretching, and full of reminders that God is carrying us through every single step. This was one of those weeks.
Monday was spent working through my research training modules, and I was so thankful to complete seven of them! There are still many more to go, but progress is progress, and I am grateful for each milestone along the way.
That afternoon also brought an eye appointment that left me needing additional tests related to detached retinal concerns. If you are someone who prays, I would deeply appreciate prayers for complete healing and protection of my vision. Years ago, God truly intervened in my glaucoma journey. We caught it just in time – seriously – it’s a God thing, the surgeries went beautifully, and I know He is still in control of every detail now.
Tuesday brought exciting business news and answered prayers. We had a successful meeting with our new printer, and I continue to stand amazed at how the Lord keeps opening doors for Monarch Educational Services. I am praying this partnership helps increase sales, expands opportunities for our authors, and strengthens the mission of providing high quality clean, uplifting literature for families.
We also officially announced that our Monarch Educational Services e-commerce store will launch on June 1, 2026! That moment felt huge after so much behind-the-scenes work.
Wednesday was such a special day because we celebrated with our LaunchJOCO family. Eli was finally able to meet the incredible business friends who have walked alongside me every Tuesday since January. Entrepreneurship can sometimes feel lonely, so finding a community of encouragers and dreamers has meant more than words can say.
That same day, I also learned about several new grants and RFP opportunities that could potentially open new doors for both Campbell and Monarch. I would truly appreciate prayers over discernment, provision, clear steps to fill the need, and wisdom moving forward.
One of the most exciting moments of the week came when I read two manuscripts in one sitting and immediately offered contracts to two authors for our Chrysalis middle grade spooky line. I completely fell hook, line, and sinker for both books. As a publisher, there is something magical about reading a story and instantly knowing it belongs in your publishing family. That night Eli and I heard the amazing news of the giving community and how we could now offer the Flex Homeschool Conference for FREE because of generous donors! Praise God!
Thursday, I had the joy of co-presenting at the Johnston County Public Library in Smithfield, North Carolina with Vanessa Lopez, owner of Arbor Academy. I absolutely love sharing strategies that support homeschool families and diverse learners. One parent shared afterward that the workshop was exactly what their family had been praying for, and moments like that remind me why I keep showing up and doing this work.
I also finished reading Your Next Five Moves this week, and it gave me so much to think about regarding leadership, business strategy, managing others, motivating my team, and intentional growth. Alongside that, I started watching YouTube testimonies and business stories from Christian entrepreneurs. Hearing how God has worked through the lives and businesses of others has been deeply encouraging to me during this season.
Today, I traveled to East Carolina University and was honored to spend the day speaking at the Summer 2026 Meeting for the North Carolina Curriculum Materials Center Association hosted at Joyner Library’s Teaching Resources Center.
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to speak about technology, AI, and the future of educator preparation. I loved the meaningful conversations with librarians and educators who are working tirelessly to support future teachers and students across North Carolina. And my son, Solomon, is in his graduate program there and doing amazing! It was great to be at a place where he is thriving! Go Pirates!
As I reflect on this week, I see hard work, uncertainty, celebration, opportunity, community, and faith woven together in every moment. Through all of it, I am reminded again and again that God is faithful. Please continue to say prayers for Monarch. We need them.
Blessings,
Jen Lowry
“This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24 (KJV)
