Brenda Carico, Office/Finance Administrator

Email: [email protected]

Family: Married to David on July 13, 1996. Four children: Zack (22), Lily (20), Madison (10) & Michael (8)

Personal History: I was born in Appleton, Wisconsin and moved to Hendersonville, North Carolina when I was 4. I was the “baby” of 7 children and so there was never a dull moment in our home growing up. In 1992, I was given the opportunity to return to college at Appalachian State. That is where I met my amazing husband, David – Super Bowl Sunday 1993. Three and half years later, we were married and I haven’t looked back since. :) I grew up in the Catholic faith and just before marrying David, I gave my life to Christ. Easter Sunday, 2005, we attended The Summit and after a few weeks, it became “home”. I was totally thrilled to become part of the staff in October 2007…I can’t wait to see what God has in store next for my family and The Summit.

Education: Bachelor of Science Business Administration / Accounting: Appalachian State University.

Key People: My husband, David: He keeps me grounded and brings me back to reality; he constantly tells me “You can do it” and gives me the encouragement I need to take the next step; he is my “soul mate”; my constant companion and I love the journey we are currently on together. My kids, Zack, Lily, Maddie, and Michael: Together they have taught me that every one of us is different and to look for something special in everyone you meet and to love whole-heartedly. They are all constant encouragers and special blessing to me. My guardian angel, Jordan: He taught me that life is precious and to savor every second, minute and hour; he taught me that sometimes God’s plans are not the same as ours, but to trust our Heavenly Father because HE knows what is best. My Parents (Oma and Opa): they equipped me with a strong work ethic; showed me unconditional love; and they modeled for me the concept of “serving others”. My In-Laws, Jack and Judy (Nana and Pa): They loved on us from day one and continue to do so each day. I could not ask to have two better people in my life. Friends and family, I am not sure what I would do without them…from daily encouragement calls to lunches to ladies night out to beach trips…my world would not be the same without each of you! My journey would not be the same without each of the above…I am so blessed. :)

Fun Stuff: Shopping for deals, date night with David, watching the kids in their extra-curricular activities, and family vacations!!!

Favorites: Date night with David (yes, I am repeating), baseball/softball games, gymnastics, and college road trips. Journey Group nights, reading a good book, listening to music, gummy bears, coffee (or anything) with the “girls”, watching “Grease” or “Grease 2”, cooking, Firebirds Restaurant (you gotta try it), and my ultimate favorites…family vacations at the beach and sleeping in!!!!

Makes me laugh: Michael’s laugh...it is contagious, Seinfeld, and America's Funniest Video's.

The Inside Scoop: I have a prosthetic ear…some say bionic, so be careful what you say – I may hear you. I love to cook – for one or for one hundred. I need a cup of coffee in the morning to get me going.

Books you should read: Anything by Max Lucado or Andy Stanley, God on Mute, Love and Respect

Before I die: I want to go back to Hawaii…kids included this time. :) I want to show others what it means to Love God and Love People through my daily walk with Christ.