LLWorldTour

Okay. Here’s the thing. I quit my job. I’m slowly going broke each day. I used to always say, “money comes in, money goes out.”
But now I guess it’s just “money goes out.” So as I hit the road, airspace, and waterways of the world to explore further recesses unknown I also am hoping to make a small amount of cash along the way. How, you ask? Well, the first ideas are more conventional considering my line of work. I have contacted some production companies in hopes of being able to do some freelance producing of segments for travel shows and the like. I have also written to a slew of travel magazines (i.e. Budget Travel, National Geographic Traveler, etc.), as well as chick mags like Marie Claire and Jane. I’m hoping to write some articles about your average-girl-in-the-world and the not-so-average things she encounters circumnavigating the globe. Oh, and of course, I will be taking tons of photographs and would love nothing more than to publish some of these.

So, now for the unconventional ways to make money. How can I get this blog sponsored? Some of you may have heard or seen www.wherethehellismatt.com.
This guy travels all over the world, dances for a few seconds in each locale and posts them on his website. It’s oddly charming and BAM, he’s sponsored by a gum company and they pay for his next trip. Now he’s freakin’ famous with a possible show deal in the works. So…what praytell can I do??
Here are some of the bad ideas some friends and I came up with that I can’t do (for obvious reasons):

• Get arrested in each country and post my mugshot—obvious issues
• Show my boobs in each country—this could lead to the aforementioned arrest
• Take a picture with a famous person in each country—too much work
• Kiss someone on the cheek in each country—idea of Jen Ward. I liked it at the time and started with her and her husband at the Cheesecake Factory in Old Orchard. Kind of fitting huh—cheesecake pics at Cheesecake Factory…hmmm…maybe they’ll sponsor me.

But I fear all the odd implications or just plain hijinks that could ensue from kissing complete strangers. Or it could just promote total world peace and harmony and land me the Nobel Peace Prize. Ya think? Yeah, I didn’t think so.
I’m looking for YOUR ideas. Got any? Send ‘em in. Just post to the comments section of this post.

Well, not exactly, but it was party time! Last night was my big send off party. This was my ‘world tour shower,’ so to speak. Or maybe it was more of a ‘world tour bachelorette party?’ Either way it was a blast. So fun! All the cool kids were there. Just want to give a shout out (can I do that?) to everyone for coming and celebrating with me. Thanks for all the beer (anyone thirsty? I started out with 2 cases and ended up with 3!), wine, booze, assorted treats, gifts, and those nifty LLworldtour.com lanyards. I expect everyone to be wearing their work ids on those come Monday morning!

Thanks again…you all gave me something to look forward to returning to!

LL

One curse (or is it a blessing?) about this journey is I can’t hold a cell phone call for more than a few minutes. The cell phone reception out here in the middle of nowhere is few and far between. It’s kind of annoying when I keep getting calls disconnected, but then I realized I kinda like it. If you already know my distaste for really talking on the phone at all—this is perfect! The phone conversation just abruptly ends itself. No fuss, no muss. “What? Sorry can’t hear you. Talk to you later!”

Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me…” You know the rest.
Today I turned 34 in South Dakota. Never done that before. Well, never done either I guess! This is one SMALL town. I’m in Kadoka, South Dakota, population:
706. 85% of the population is white and almost all the rest are native American. Last night for dinner, I went local and had the requisite American meal: meat loaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans. Mmm…nothing says the West better than meat lovingly formed into the shape of a loaf! It was actually quite tasty. My waiter at the small roadside diner was a guy from Bali! Of course, another local waitress told me he was from Bali, India. Not too worldy in these parts I guess. I’m sure she meant Indonesia. She had the first 3 letters right, at least.
I even overheard her teaching him nursery rhymes.
“Mary had a little lamb, little lamb, little lamb…”
“Humpty Dumpty sat on a fence…”
She went on loudly like this for about a half hour. I mean seriously! The guy was more than 30 years old. I mean hand him a newspaper if you want to help him with his English. Nursery Rhymes?? Seriously.

Then at breakfast I gave my newspaper to a guy who also seemed to be from ‘somewhere else.’ Turns out he’s from Tajikistan. He’s studying at Stanford and was driving around the country like me. We shared a bit of “this is definitely middle America” comments and went our separate ways.

I headed off to the Badlands in the chilly rain.

The weather seemed to match the scene. Here the prairie gives way to a rugged no-man’s-land of unusual rock formations carved by wind and water. Its weird, multi-colored peaks, desolate buttes, desert-like moonscapes and fossil-rich fields, is an easy stop for road trippers like me zooming down I-90. This fascinating landscape of the park erodes at a rate of about 1 inch per year providing an ever-changing landscape. It’s a stark, craggy beauty really breaks up the monotony of the trip and the rain adds to the feeling. And aptly for this moment, Def Leppards, “Rock of Ages” came on the radio as I navigated through this eerie landscape. Very cool.
This little detour ended at Wall, South Dakota. If you’ve never heard of Wall Drug Store, I guess you haven’t lived because it has truly made the tiny town of Wall a thriving shoppers mecca! It’s a testament to great marketing, that’s for sure. What a crazy phenomenon. Welcome to the Disney World of Dakota! This town would be nothing without this ‘drug store crap emporium.’ The whole main street WAS the drug store. Through the racks of T-shirts, rows of shot glasses, and loads and loads of tchotckes I searched for the actual drugs. I finally did find a tiny apothecary. This place was sensory overload, but it teemed with tourists searching for the perfect “jackalope” keychain or “I’ve been bad in the Badlands” t-shirt. Not my scene. I bought my mom her second Jackalope and got the hell out of Dodge, or Wall as it were.

My bottle of ‘bomb infused’ spring water was just confiscated by the flight attendant on my flight from Newark to Chicago. I know, nowadays just uttering (or typing?) the word ‘bomb’ is a no-no, but I’m just reporting the news here, right?
As you may know just one week ago, the British authorities foiled a plot by terrorists to carry bombs on several planes in London. These bombs were a cocktail mix of a sports drink and ‘bomb juice’ (made that up). So, the result of this is the current ban of ALL liquids on all domestic and international flights. This includes your everyday lip balm, shampoo, toothpaste…and, yes, one of today’s most common accessories—the Starbucks cup or bottle of ‘fancy’ water scooped out of some stream in the Maine wilderness (or maybe just some guys toilet).
So, about an hour into our flight, 30,000 or so feet above the earth, I was reprimanded. I told the nice male flight attendant I had bought it after I passed through security (yes, this was a lie), but apparently no liquids are allowed onboard period. Actually, I was well aware of my carry-on hydration secret as I stood barefoot on line at the security checkpoint. I figured I would just keep it in the side pocket of my backpack. I stuck my pack in one of those gray plastic bins and for the heck of it, kind of tucked the bottle out of view, even though I was almost sure the X-ray folks would see it and make me throw it out. But if not, I could keep my bottle of refreshing goodness and no one would get hurt. To my surprise, they did not stop me—either they didn’t detect it or I was racially ‘profiled’ on the spot as a non-threat. Now, believe me, I was glad to keep my water, but disappointed at the ease of which I smuggled such ‘newly labeled contraband’ into the gate area. Good thing I can feel safe with such high alerts and crack security agents watching out for bottle-wielding hydration freaks like me.

#1. I booked my tix for the first leg of my journey yesterday and it turns out I WILL be able to stop in New Zealand (wasn’t sure if I’d go there, although, many people have told me how amazingly beautiful it is) for free since my flight stops there anyway. So I will stay for 10 days! So on my way home I’m reading this book called “Adventure Divas” by Holly Morris—a Globetrekker Host and also a TV producer (yes, I’ve already emailed her. I also emailed the Dancing Matt guy and he wrote me back—but I digress) and it just happens that the chapter I’m on is about her trip to New Zealand! Meant to be.

#2. I’m also very excited about my journey down to Chile and Patagonia. On Saturday I showed my condo to a couple –the wife has traveled around the world twice and her husband, of course, just happens to be from Chile and has tips for me.

I love when things like this happen! Sadly for them though, I did not rent them the place. They had 2 kids. That’s 2 kids too many for my condo.

I just have to mention I went running on the Lakefront Path this morning and was just running along and smelled the fresh cut grass and looked up at the pretty trees and smiled. I smiled while i was running?!?! I know, odd considering I simply despise running, but I truly love this city and it’s nice to have these moments when you feel lucky to be alive and healthy!
That’s my ‘carpe diem’ moment of the day!
LL

The next email goes out to friends and family:

From: Lisa.G.Lubin@abc.com
Subject: Around the World in 365 Days?
Date: July 31, 2006 2:34:09 PM CDT

Dear friends & family-

Hi there! As most of you know I love to travel. So…I am about to do what the subject line says. I plan on traveling around the world–starting this August in the US…and continuing on in October to Central America, South America, Australia, Asia, possibly Africa, and all of Eastern and Western Europe. Just this week I gave my notice (aka: quit!) at ABC7 after 9 years! And I sold my other condo. I will be renting out the condo I live in starting October 1.
This is a dream trip for me and I am reaching out to all of you for ANY help/advice/contacts/thoughts
(I apologize in advance if some of you have already gotten a similar email–there’s some crossover).

Here is the VERY rough plan I have so far:
October–Costa Rica
November–Ecuador (Galapagos Islands)
November–Chile (Patagonia)
Nov/December–Argentina
Dec/Jan–Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Queensland/GBR, Cairns)
Feb/March–Hong Kong, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Singapore
March/April–Dubai, Turkey
(possible trip to south africa)
April thru Summer–Eastern Europe (Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Baltics) and Western Europe (Germany, France, Netherlands, Denmark, Italy, Spain, Portugal)

I know some of you plan to meet me at certain spots which I am very excited about. I also am looking for any contacts (friends, family, colleagues, etc.) you may have abroad. I would love to visit some places and meet locals who can really give me a feel of their community and culture. And, many of you have done some traveling also and I’m looking for ANY and ALL advice/tips you have as well.

While traveling, I also plan on taking some classes (Spanish Immersion in Costa Rica & Spain, Cooking in Tuscany, photography)
and volunteering some. I’ve been in touch with the Chicago Sister Cities Program to do some work for them.
This is something I have ALWAYS wanted to do…and I am so fortunate to finally live my dream!
I plan on documenting much of my trip with photographs and will be in touch through email. If you would like to hear from me during my travels, please write back and I will include you on the email list. Thanks so much for your thoughts and excitement as I embark on a wonderful journey through our world!
See you along the way… or in a year!

Travel Love,
Lisa

PS–Stay tuned for the ‘bon voyage’ party in September!!
————————————————————————————————————————–
Lisa – That is fantastic!! It’s funny that you wrote today – I started writing you an email yesterday and our computers locked up at the end of the day, so I was going to finish it this morning. I’m sorry to hear about you and Andy. I know that must have been tough, but it sounds like you obviously have a lot going on! What a great trip this is going to be!! Are you pretty much traveling by yourself and just meeting up with people? I am so excited (and envious) for you!!! I OF COURSE want to be on the email list! We have some friends in Belgium and actually Shanghai that we could put you in contact with. The couple in Shanghai are super nice – they are sort of friends of a friend). We met them at a wedding and I know they would love to have a visitor. They teach English over there. So if you are going to Shanghai (which I just realized wasn’t on your list) just let me know. And if you go to Belgium, let me know – our friends Ron and Kat would love to have you! I am SO SO excited for you!!! I know this is a dream come true!! Cramer and I were talking just the other day about what the greatest job would be and I really think it would be to have some kind of travel show. Maybe you can do that when you get back!! Definitely keep me posted on everything!
Love, Susan

Wow this is HUGE …..Please put us on the list. As you always know we want to know how you are doing!
I have a friend who I will send this to and see if he has any advise/contacts for you! He has some extensive travel under his belt.
Take Care-and as always we will pray for you!
Brian Correll

You are amazing! I’ve always said that you are one of my heroes and you’re proving it once again. You have such an independent spirit and I love that in you. I love you Lisa. OMG, I can’t believe you’re doing this. It is so great. And I was going to send you an email and tell you I went to Nagel’s. How exciting is that? … I’m sure you’ve got a million things to do. I want to hear everything that happens. So keep me onthe list. This is so exciting. I’m going to tell everyone about my dear friend.
I love you, Rhonda

Lisa,
Awesome.
I didn’t see England in there. Let me know if and when you will be there. I will put you in touch with my friend Matt who grew up in Luton Town just outside of London. He will be living in Derby by then. He is a riot.
Grant Detrick

This is incredible. Wow. You’ve been talking about this for 15-years. I’m so impressed you are going to live out your dream
Yes, I know some people. Stay tuned. Which e-mail address will you be using–sbcglobal or yahoo?
Love and congrats.
Dougie

Uhhh…I think it goes without saying that I want to be on the email distribution list for the ATWITSFD tour.
Patrick

Hey Lisa-
Sounds amazing! Of course I’d love to hear from you during your travels!
If you ever decide to do a tour of the Western Suburbs, my door is always open J… Naperville is divine in the Spring….He He He
Travel Safe,
Nicole

Congratulations! Of course put me on your email list, and put me down as a “maybe” to meet you in Ecuador/Gallapagos and maybe Turkey next spring.
Hope to see you tonite for a drink,
Marsha

Wow Lisa! You’re doing what I wanted to do my whole life. I hope I can do it someday -and I hope I won’t be so old that I will confuse Moscow with Madrid. Anyway, I wish you the best of luck and congratulations for having made that decision. I don’t know where it comes
from, but I guess we all want at some point in life to stop doing what we’re doing and travel around the world for a change. Good for you!
I will get you lots of information about Argentina. I don’t know what your plans are going to be, but as I said before, I have relatives there and they will be more than happy to host you in their homes. I also have friends in Ecuador and Chile so I will contact them to ask about the must-see places in their respective countries.
Good luck and talk to you soon.
Damian. (more…)

My job is posted. Looks like a good job. Many have asked if I’m sad. Nope. Reading my job description makes me feel like I’ve accomplished something. What a good chapter in my life. But time to move on and learn more and do more and see more (oh, Seymour)!

Producer – WLS-TV / ABC 7 Chicago
**NOTE: ABC7 DOES NOT ACCEPT ON LINE or E-MAIL APPLICATIONS**
Chicago’s #1 television station has an immediate opening for a producer in our award winning programming department. ABC 7 is the leading producer of local programming in Chicago.

Duties will include writing and producing a variety of programs for ABC 7. We produce a weekly entertainment show, many local specials, all the big parades and tons of special projects.

Job Qualifications: Three to five years of program writing and producing experience. Strong knowledge of pre and post production, graphics and music. AVID experience a must.

If you are a strong producer that would love to work with a station that makes local programming a priority, please rush your reel and resume to:

Tom Hebel
Vice President, Local Programming and Creative Services
WLS-TV / ABC 7 Chicago
190 North State Street
Chicago, IL 60601

EOE. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. REELS WILL NOT BE RETURNED.

Here are the most common words in the responses:

1. “WOW!”
2. “…the trip of a lifetime!”
3. “…Envious/jealous…”
4. “Fabulous”

Everyone was really cool and I could feel the love from the emails. I even am going to be able to come back and freelance some. I should’ve quit a long time ago—I’d have made more money.
Well, the ball is really rolling now. Time to really plan the trip. Gulp!

It’s pretty funny. There are about three distinct reactions I’m getting from people regarding my impending world circumnavigation.
1. Pure Joy and sincere excitement. These are my kind of people. They really ‘get it.’ They too get a sparkle in their eyes as they congratulate me. Words like ‘fabulous,’ ‘guts,’ and ‘courageous’ roll off their tongue.
2a. The Jealous Type/ Similar to type 1, but are envious and they admit it. I love these people. Their jealousy is pure and they aren’t afraid to admit it.
2b. The Jealous Silent type. These are the ones I either don’t hear from at all or when I do—I’m met with more comments like, “why are you leaving me?” And “it’s not fair.” Yeah, like I didn’t have to plan a tremendous amount for this. It’s not like Disney plunked down a big, fat bonus and Mickey jumped out and said ‘go see the world Lisa…it IS a small world after all.” Yeah, it’s a small world and some people have small minds. Anyone could do what I’m doing. It’s a choice. Just like having kids or staying at a job is a choice. Nuff said.
3. The non-responders. These people don’t get it or frankly just don’t give a damn. Travel isn’t their thing. They don’t get off by meeting new people and eating new foods. In fact, most of that scares them and they’d rather stay in their 2X2 comfort zone. Hey—that’s fine with me. That’s why I’m going and they’re staying. Plus, I got guts (heard that word alot too).

The deed is done! Today, I resigned my job as producer at ABC7. Everyone was so great—their support and encouragement was just overwhelming and much appreciated. I sent out a mass email to hundreds of colleagues and co-workers and already got 100+ responses.

From: Lisa.G.Lubin@abc.com
Subject: It’s a small world…
Date: July 10, 2006 3:04:51 PM CDT

Dear ABC7 Friends & Colleagues-

I wanted to let you all know that after nearly 9 years here at WLS-TV (I know, some of you have worked here much longer!), I will be leaving as of August 1st. The time has come for me to move on. As many of you know, I LOVE to travel–and that’s just what I’m about to do.

I will be traveling around the world–starting this August in the US–and continuing on in October to Central America, South America (Ecuador, Argentina, Chile), Tahiti, Australia, Asia (Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Turkey), Africa, and all of Eastern and Western Europe. I will be doing lots of photography and travel writing along the way. I also will be doing some work for the Chicago Sister City Program. Along the way I have some activities planned–Spanish Immersion class in Costa Rica, Photography Seminar, Tuscan Cooking class, bike trip through Vietnam, etc.
If anyone wants to be on my ‘e’ list and receive updates from the far corners of the world–let me know! I will be sending out a more detailed email soon.

My home email address:
llworldtour@yahoo.com

This is a dream trip for me. I’ll be meeting up with some friends who live abroad as well as many friends meeting up with me in various places along the way, if anyone’s interested… please let me know!

It has been a great 9 years here! I want to thank each of you for making me laugh one time or another.
I’ve been really lucky to have a great job, meet great people, and cover the city of Chicago everyday and fall in love with it!
Ciao!

Take care,
Lisa

Lisa Lubin
Producer
ABC 7
190 N. State St.,
Chicago, IL 60601
312.750.7158
lisa.g.lubin@abc.com
www.abc7chicago.com
www.190North.com
——————————————————————————————————————————-
That is so awesome – congratulations – and be sure to stop off at Disney World on your way around the world
All the best,
Derek

Congratulations…….that sounds wonderful.
Donna I. Williams

How awesome!
That is great!
I’ll miss you…but I’m very happy for you. Definitely put me on your email list….
Arlene Irves

Ay, que buena suerte! Que te vaya bien hermana y por favor me escribas :>) (please write)
Evelyn Bailey

WOW…will certainly miss your smiling face. Enjoy! Keep me on your email update list I would love to hear what’s up with you.
Ray Saleh

Wow, it’s official!! Nice email!
Cheers,
AR

Please put me on your “e” list!
Dad

Wow! What a trip! It sounds fabulous! Have a GREAT time! I would love to hear all about your travels and recommendations! J

Good luck! We’ll miss you here at WLS!
Megan Gilmore

Congratulations!!! I hope to stay in touch so keep me updated. I lived in China for a year and really enjoyed Viet Nam. Great part of the world!
Ted Boles

OH MY GOSH – I am thrilled for you!!!
Yes of course please put me on your list. I will be traveling abroad a little, not nearly as much as you.
Congratulations Lisa – I am sure this was a huge decision!
Chris Reller

Congratulations!!!!! It’s really happening!
Diane Kotin

You go Girl. Congrats to you, that’s wonderful news. You’ll be missed. It was a pleasure working with you. Take care and I’ll see ya before you leave.
Erica June

Lisa,
It was a pleasure working with you. Please think of me when you reach Tuscany. La buona fortuna ed ha un viaggio sicuro e frutiful!
Joe Trimarco

Its an opportunity of a life time!
All I can say is that it’s been a pleasure working with you. I hope you enjoy all the various places that you visit and please keep me on your list of those to receive updates, as I’d love to hear about all the great things that are to come.
Have fun! We’ll have to get a nice group to go out for cocktails prior to Aug. 1st to celebrate your new venture…
Coco Del Monico

Can’t wait to get your updates, Lisa! Good luck and have a fantastic time! J
Melissa

Wow, I’m sooooo jealous. Sounds like the experience of a lifetime.
FYI, I’ll be in Italy in late Sept. for the harvest, (radio work, alas) if you’re in the ‘hood, I’ll buy you some wine…
Congrats and best of luck to you.
Steve Dolinsky

Congrats girl! Can’t wait to celebrate your big send off. AND — come visit you somewhere on the globe. You’ll have to print off a tentative itinerary of your travels.
You rock!
Marla Cichowski

Mazel Tov! I am so happy for you! You better plan on stopping in our Homeland, Israel! This is great news!!! You are really living and making the best of your life!!!! WONDERFUL!!
neal Weisenberg

Good for you. I wish you the best. We will miss you.
Love
Charlene Kruk

Lisa,
Good luck to you. You were always a pleasure to work with. Sounds like your upcoming journey will be the thrill of a lifetime!!
Best Wishes,
Rob Johnson

Wow!!! Congratulations, Lisa. I remember you as the young, long-haired, new producer from the South. I know this is what you have always wanted to do. It’s very adventuresome and no time like the present. (We just returned from Tahiti – there is no more beautiful spot on earth. You will love the clear water, snorkeling and coral. The fish I could live without!)
Good luck, happy trails, bon voyage and shalom.
Fran Preston

Congratulations. Change is good and travel and personal growth are even better.
Good luck and stay in touch.
Jennifer Hoppenstedt

WOW, no one has ever sent me an email saying they were doing something so Absolutely Fascinating. You are really living the dream. Have you read the book “Adventure Capitalist” by Jim Rogers? He travels the world for 2 years, it is a such a dream for a lot of people (me included!) I’d love to be on your email list, too.
Do they need help around ABC7 when you’re gone? I am looking for a new challenge myself!
Best of luck,
Jill Logiudice

Congratulations! This is a great opportunity and I wish you safe travels.
Who should I contact from here on out?
Thanks,
Jennifer Fortney

I’m stunned, but happy for you. I’d love to receive your updates, so long as I can manage to control my envy.
Bonsignore, Richard J.

Dear Lisa,
If it’s envy you’re looking for…..YOU WIN. I am both saddened and heartened by your e-mail. You have been so incredibly good to me, so heartened is the emotion I’m going to go with. I had no idea you were even thinking of going on this wonderful adventure. I’m sure your life will be full of intrigue every day of your travels. Now, every continent on Earth will get to experience the Lubin magic. (Skip Antarctica, it’s no place for a beautiful Jewish & Irish girl to be). My thoughts and prayers for your safe travel will be with you throughout your travels. I would definitely like to be on your e-mail list.
If time permits, I would love to talk to you before you go and get all the details of what you’re doing. That way my envy can be complete.
I am so very happy for you!
Kevin Fitzpatrick

LISA,, CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU.. YOU’RE DOING WHAT SO MANY DO JUST DREAM ABOUT… IT SOUNDS WONDERFUL… PLEASE KEEP IN TOUCH…
CARLEEN MOSBACH

Lisa,
What a wonderful opportunity! Of course, please include me on your email list. I’d love to hear about your adventures. (I also know the perfect restaurant in Venice!)
Travel safely,
Royal.

Have a GREAT trip!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That’s absolutely fantastic! Please do keep in touch. We’re actually collecting stories from people right now for our next books. Maybe there’s a place for you.
All the best,
Bob and Melinda Blanchard

Lisa – that sounds absolutely fabulous and may I say “good for you”! Best of luck and may you enjoy safe travels!
Diana

Congrats on your decision to “explore the world.” Kristin and her husband, Dave, spent 3-months travelling through Africa, Egypt, Eastern Europe, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, plus lots more!! It gave them a unique opportunity before settling down and starting their family. Actually, come September they will be transferred from Cincinnati to “somewhere” for P&G. Exact dates/ destination yet to be determined (wonder how far I’ll have to drive or fly to visit!!!). And, yes, please do put me on your “e” list … it was such fun reading Kristin’s notes as they travelled!!
Good luck and travel safely!
Best regards,
Elaine Herman

Lisa,
I’m so jealous I can’t stand it!
Sounds like an incredible, wonderful journey.
We’ll miss you here even as you’re sent off with a Bon Voyage!
Alan Krasheshky
“Let me recommend the best medicine in the world: a long journey, at a mild season, through a pleasant country, in easy stages.”
- President James Madison
“Life is either a daring adventure – or nothing.”
-Helen Keller

Wow! Lisa, you deserve the best! You have done a lot of great work in Chicago and I welcome the opportunity to see you grow even more! When we opened our business, you gave us that extra boost we needed and for that, we will be forever greatful…Please add me to your list and do stay in touch…Enjoy the world!
Ericka Gibson

Hi Lisa,
wow what an exciting opportunity. How long will you be gone??
Please add us to your email list we would love to hear about your travels.
Is Andy going?
Talk to you soon,
Christine

WOW!! This is going to be the trip of a lifetime!! I’d love to be on your e-list – I’ve never known a world traveler. It was great working with you on the Gibbons Run project. Are you secretly contracted with Discovery or the travel Channel for your upcoming trip?
I hope you have a great experience and great luck in learning new things while seeing the world.
Be careful!
Carl F. Alston, APR
Leukemia Research Foundation

Lisa! I know you’ve been looking forward to a trip like this for some time— congratulations!!!!
Please keep me on the updates list and tell me all your adventures. Let me know if you’re coming near LA!
Lots of love and so happy for you!
Steph

This is so friggin fantastic!! I wonder if you were able to type that email tear-free. I’m betting no. I’m so excited for your trip. Just beyond excited.
Patrick Lytle

You lucky dog! I envy you and love your courage to do what your heart desires. I would love to keep in touch with you and your travels!
I know we have not had a chance to talk much lately, but you have always been one of my favorite people at WLS! I am going to miss your sunny disposition. Hope to see you before you leave.
Kal

Good for you Lisa! What a wonderful opportunity.
I would love to be on your e-mail list to read about your adventures and possibly get some travel ideas for the future. Thanks for offering.
I wish you the very best.
Sincerely,
C-C.

Hi Lisa,
I would love to keep in touch with your explorations. What a dream! Best of success. If you need to know somebody in Thailand I can ask my sister-in-law to refer me to some of her friends.
Loida Rosario, President

OMG THAT SOUNDS AMAZING!!! I am so happy for you and impressed that you are actually doing it! That is awesome!
(and I’m more than a little jealous)
Happy trails!
Jenn Galdes

Dear Lisa,
This is Inggrid Yonata. I’m so glad that you’re taking the time to get out and explore the world instead of being tied down to work. I think it’s a trip you truly deserve… I’ve always looked up to you. Hopefully, I’d be able to do the same thing too… travel around the world.
Please send me updates on how it is out there…!!
Much regard,
Inggrid Yonata

Lisa, congrats on the super-cool year ahead! Best of luck.
Susanna Homan

Best of luck to you~~~ how exciting to travel around the world. I’m jealous!!!!!
Who’s taking over in your spot? Is 190 North continuing?
Best,
Lisa Stafford

Definitely add me to you e list – I would love to hear more bout your adventures! Good luck to you and have a blast – I am soooo jealous!
Darcy P. Morse

Wow Lisa, what an awesome personal plan you have. Good luck to you and Godspeed!
Jay Foot

Lisa,
I don’t know you all that well, but wish you a happy and safe journey around the world. If you happen upon the Hawaiian Island at some point in your travels, drop me an email here and I’ll hook you up with some friends of mine that still live over there. I lived over there for six years and also have work-related connections if you are interested.
Best Wishes,
Mark Urban
WLS-TV ENG Photog

Hi Lisa-
That sounds fabulous! Have a great trip, and a great life!
Eric Scholl

Can’t believe it has been that long. All the best to you, what a fabulous opportunity. Best of luck, and send me the recipes from that Tuscan cooking class! Put me on the email list! Thanks.
Sergey-Siegel, Nancy

Wow, so glad to hear from you – what a wonderful opportunity.
Would love to hear about your travels. Please do keep in touch.
Who is replacing you at the station?
How’s the show been?
jamie mazursky

Wow! I’m just trying to plan a trip to Disney!
CONGRATS AND GOOD LUCK. It sounds amazing.
It was nice drinking with you Friday.
Jamee GartonInsko

Holy Crap!!!!!!! Why didn’t you tell me you were leaving???!!!!!!!!!!!
Mark Berman

Wow! How was that to write?!?!? The last resignation letter I wrote was 15 years ago for Westinghouse! OF course, I left to do nothing! This is much more exciting! Please keep us on your “e” list.
David Lubin

Hey Lisa,
I got your group email and just wanted to say congratulations! That sounds like truly a dream come true. You are the best teacher I have ever had…thanks for giving yourself so passionately in everything you do. It’s what makes you great!
Sincerely,
Trisha

Hey Dave
WOW it sure sounds like your sis has been doing great.
I would love to see her travel updates as she goes on this trip. Send her an email for me and tell her I would love to see the pics etc of her adventure. Especially the bike trip through Vietnam
Ken hartman

Lisa,
Congratulations!!! It’s what everyone dreams of doing, but most don’t have the courage!
Enjoy your travels, and please add me to your email list- I’d love to travel vicariously through
your email updates! Thanks for all the GREAT press!!!
My best-
Ninel
The T-Shirt Deli, Co.

Lisa,
Congrats. It really does sound like a dream come true!! Even though we didn’t seem much of each other.. I’ll miss running into you.
Please keep me posted on your travels. I would love to hear how you are doing and what you are doing. I hope you have a wonderful and very, very safe trip.
Take Care,
Christine M. Tressel

Subject: I wanna be on your email list
Lisa, Good for you!!!! As a linguist and a fellow live-all-over-the-world person, I’m full of envy. If you don’t mind, we’ll post pics and saga here at Metropolis for all who are interested. I, too, adventured many a time to South America and central America- In fact I lived in Indonesia and Argentina (go to Mendoza from Chile-It’s right across the Cordillera from Santiago).
Have a great trip. Be sure to stay away from Americans in Costa Rica if you really wanna learn Spanish.
Jeff Dreyfuss

Dearest Lisa:
Awesome!!!! You will be soooo-missed and so loved and cheered along the way from this corner!
I will be honoured to receive updates and e-mails regarding your journey!
Be well, our PRECIOUS CARGO!
In Love and Light,
Gina Varilek

Subject: You Go Girl!
Lisa—
Wow! I’m impressed with your decision to go after this and enjoy that which life has to offer. Way to go and not let life pass by!
I’d love to be on your E – List and hear the exciting adventures of a Lisa Lubin. Please include me:
Best Wishes.
Casey Klaus

Congratulations!
Please put me on your elist!
Best thing I ever did was a 5-day trek in Northern Thailand. Highlight: two hours riding an elephant through the jungle. Have a great time.
David Fell

Good luck to you on your journey. Please include me in your e-mail list.
Susan Mitchell

Lisa,
It’s been a while since we’ve talked, Neal sent me your email. Sounds like you really have things planned out. Good for you, sounds like the opportunity of a lifetime. I can’t believe all of the places that you will be visiting. Please add me to your email list, I would love to hear about your journey. What have you done with your condo? Are you keeping it? Let us know of any plans for a farewell party I would like to see you and wish you well.
Dena Serpico

Wow Lisa!
That sounds like just a wonderful plan! What a way to see the world. Have a great trip and a safe trip.
Please include me on your list of people to be included on your travel updates.
Congratulations to you and it was always a pleasure working with you.
Have a beautiful Tuesday,
Paul Michael Yedwofski

Congratulations Lisa! I can’t wait for you. Hope to see you at my birthday and give you a real farewell.
Love,
Jessica

Congratulations Lisa!!!
We are so happy for you and please, put us on your E-List. we would love to stay updated about your FABULOUS travels.
talk to you soon,
Erika and Monika
www.doublestitchwear.com

Lisa,
Good luck. I’ll miss working with you. Stay away from those little green peppers and under cooked cat.
Best Regards,
Craig Strom

Lisa: good for you! I am quite a bit jealous of your freedom and guts and wish you a wonderful trip. You’ve done great work here these past 9 years and will be missed.
Bon voyage. Emily Barr

We are thrilled for you!! Can’t wait to get together to hear all. Congrats on this exciting new journey!
xoxo, Susie and Peter

Hello Lisa,
this your former student Polina Goldshtein writing. hard to remember now, since it was a while ago (or so it seems), but i think i was in your making a broadcast package class wow, what you are about to do sounds great! remember, we talked about traveling when you were getting ready to visit Croatia and i was telling you that i am from Latvia and how nice it is in Europe?!
looks like you will be somewhere near or around Latvia at some point of your trip, right? you are most welcome to shoot me an e-mail if you will, and i can show you around my city. yes, it does mean that i also left chicago and now live back here i think i wrote you that after graduating i started working for WYCC channel 20 and on russian radio. well, a year ago i visited Latvia again, found a job (i work as a programming director for a 1st Baltic Channel), re-united with a childhood “crush” lol and have been living here since. So things are great and let me know if you will stop by this region.
Best,
Polina Goldshtein

Lisa,
Considering I will never be able to do something like this, given my responsibility for two beautiful girls, I would love to be on your e-list. I’ve always been fascinated by geography and would love to hear about your experience. Safe travels!
Tracy A Butler
ABC7 Meteorologist

Hi Lisa! Oh my gosh, it’s been a very long time…how the heck are you?? Your travels sound absolutely fantastic. I’m jealous. I did a little travel and moving myself, albeit only to Chattanooga. I am getting married August 18, and as fate has it, my fiancé lives in Chattanooga. My mother, sister, brother-in-law and baby niece live an hour away. For the last 15 years my dad wanted me to move closer to the family, but sadly he died 18 months ago and didn’t get to see this monumental occasion. I’m renting my condo in Chicago (I, too, love the city and won’t part with my 800-sqare feet of land).What have you been up to these last few years? Please keep me on your e-list. I’d love to hear about your travels. And if your journey ever brings you to Chattanooga, please let me know. You are always welcome here!
Take care of yourself and be safe!
- Kristiina Ellam

Enjoy your travels. Have a fun and safe time.
Frank Cardenas

How fabulous for you! Sounds like a dream come true.
My husband is Turkish and we go every year, so let me know if you want any Turkey advice.
Peggy Froh Asseo

Hi Lisa – How exciting! I too have a serious travel jones and I would love to someday do what you are about to begin. Yes, keep me on your e list…I love travelogues!
Happy trails…stay safe and have a wonderful time.
L.
Laura Levitt-Gamis

Lisa,
I am truly sorry to see you leave our “cast” …however, I am more jealous of your travel plans. Oh if I could just carry your backpack!.
Please keep in touch…I would enjoy to read your updates, thanks for the offer.
Tell me more about the Viet Nam leg of this journey.
You are a fabulous editor and producer…I hope we can work together in the future, I know I can learn a lot from you.
Take care,
Richard E Hillengas

Lisa, how wonderful of an adventure you have planned. Did you see the article about Travel Writing in the Sunday Style section of the last Sunday NYT, this is not meant to deter you just a fun read. I would love to be on your email list, we could put an occasional update in our Greeter newsletter.
Good Luck to you.
Katie Law

Congrats on the new job with the city! Looking forward to hearing about your travels.
Anne Swaney

Hi….WOW, this sounds amazing!!!!
Please put me on your email list and keep me posted…….
Best of Luck
Ileene Paset

Congrats Lisa……would love to be on your email list hearing about your adventures!
Let’s get together before you take off!
Monica Canellis

Dear Lisa…good for you…..Have a great time…and we will miss you…stay in touch….
Larry Snyder

Good for you…………….I’ll miss you but it’s once in a lifetime.
Keep my posted on your adventures.
Karen Meyer

Best of luck, Lisa. I remember when we had lunch last year that you indicated that this was a dream of yours. Good for you for making it happen!
Safe travels, Kendra Thornton

Congrats! I’m so jealous. I know you’ll have a blast.
Danny Tag

That is great have a wonderful time..!!
john mccartney

Good luck Lisa, even though we never worked together i know who you are, i’ve been here for a long time and can’t wait to do the same thing………feel free to send me photo’s especially Vietnam since i spent a few months there…….
Billy D Newsom

Good luck to you Lisa and wish you all the very best in your exciting journey! I think its wonderful having the opportunity to be able to do what many only dream of especially when it is something that you LOVE and are passionate about. I certainly would like to be on your e-list and be very interested in sharing your great experiences. Congratulations on your decision and how awesome to see the world!
Again, good luck and thank you!
Maria

Lisa.
A time for change!! Interesting… I left Corporate America myself after 9 years …. and what an amazing journey it’s been. It’s as though I got off the Merry-Go-Round and jumped on the roller coaster… and am loving it. I’ve filmed in over 15 different countries, seen some of the most beautiful places on earth and met some of the most fascinating people. It’s been a blast and I’m sure, will be the same for you.
Good move to see the world and decompress from the ivory towers of Disneyville. Get as far away from that mouse as you can… and awake to a new, interesting and exciting fresh world perspective. Yes, please keep me on your E-mail list. I look forward to reading your observations, as you see just how similar, but different the planet is. As you know, it is amazing?
Before you leave, know, that if I can help you in anyway, don’t hesitate to ask. I have a great new studio here on Ohio and it’s shaping up for the next phase in my life. If you need work contacts, any advice or would like to get together sometime, just call or write.
Peace my friend, it’s what we do best.
Rick Erwin

Bonjour Lisa!
Thanks a lot for the pics of us. It was a very great shooting. I had a lot of fun with you and your team. I’m looking forward to see the result on DVD. I wish you a very good trip around the world, If you’re back in Montréal one of these days give ma a call or email me!
Merci beaucoup and don’t forget “la joie de vivre!”
FreD

Wow Lisa!!! That sounds Great!!
I Would love to take time off to do something LIke that. I wish you well in your travels. You may not want to come back to the states. As for me right now. I am still in Sarasota Florida. But its been a year and could be leaving soon. I have an offer in West Palm Beach, FL. But yeah, I wont forget.. you Helped me put together my first package…lol. Anyway enjoy your travels. And when do you plan on coming back to the states. one year… two??
Travell Eiland

Congratulations! It sounds like a marvelous trip.
I know we’ve only exchanged a couple of hellos in all these years, but it seams like I know you better, since Theresa is always singing your praises.
I hope you have a remarkable and SAFE experience.
All the best to you,
Adriana Cortez

Lisa (AKA “The Globetrotter”): Thanks for the update. What exciting news. All best wishes for a wonderful adventure, wish, I hope, leads you back to Chicago. Enjoy lots of cheese along the way.
Best, Lisa Doherty

Holy Cow! Sign me up for the travel update list!
Jody Robbins

Good for you !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am very jealous, have a great trip and yes I would love it if you kept in touch.
Kristen Eder

Lisa,
Gulp….. from a person who is having trouble getting up the courage to fly to New York, I applaud you in taking on the adventure of this magnitude. It should be thrilling…but of course you’ll be missed!! Please keep me posted on the Lisa Lubin world tour……..but hey, who is going to help me with my computer questions??????????? Nonetheless, I hope you know my thoughts are with you and I hope this is just a splendid new beginning for you. It’s funny how life is……..I should be use to it by now, but there’s a chance that I may never see you again…..boo hoo. But I hope you’ll send me emails from your travels so I can keep track of you and hear about your grand adventures. You are very talented and creative person and I know wherever you land you’ll be a great success!
All the best wishes and big hugs,
Jayme nicholas

Oh my gosh, that’s so awesome! Good for you, I wish I could do something like that. Well, have a great time and I would love to hear how it’s going! Be safe and it has been great working with you and also having you as a teacher
Laura Windt

I’m thrilled and envious to hear about your wonderful plans. I’m glad you’re able to do this and please include me on your update list. Happy travels!
Vicki M.Giammona

please put me on your elist so I can live vicariously–
we are in madrid and cycling around Gerona for a week or so, and a Spanish immersion class would have been quite helpful.
have a great trip…
lm
LINDA MENSCH

Hi Lisa:
What a surprise. Keep me on your email list. Love to read your travel stories.
You are still planning on coming to my Cirque?
All the best for the new adventure.
Annemarie
Tourism Quebec

I’m sad! But I’m really happy for you . . but, I’m so sad. Anyway please include me on your list and as I said my Wife and I would love to update you about Viet Nam and possibly put you in touch with people we know there.
.. I will make it a point to touch base with you before you leave WLS
All the Best,
Lee Levin

Lisa,
I wanted to wish you the very best of luck on your new journey. Your plans to travel sounds amazing. As I am just returning from a very brief stay in Italy, I’m so jealous of all the wonderful places you are planning to see!
You are a great producer and working with you was always a lot of fun and a pleasure! We’re going to terribly miss the way you covered Chicago and all of the great things in it. Have an amazing time! Safe travels and best of luck to you. Please keep in touch and thank you for all the work you put into your stories, especially the ones we worked on together!
Best,
Sheena Quinn

Good for you , i wish you the very best of luck with your new life. Hope to see you again in the future.
I would like to be on your e-mail list to have news from you !
Merci et bonne chance dans ta nouvelle vie !
Gabriel xx
Gabriel Duguay

Lisa:
This sounds like the opportunity of a lifetime! Have a FABULOUS time and Best of Luck!
Keri Bartholomew

Lisa,
Good for you. Please add me to your list. If your writings are published please let me know where and maybe I can hook you up with a media rate or comp stay somewhere.
I am very jealous of your travels. Good luck!
Jamie Izaks

Hi Lisa,
It’s Tina Kontos. I was an intern in the spring of last year. I received your e-mail regarding your new adventure in traveling around the world. It sounds like you are going to have an experience of a lifetime! I’m so envious! I hope one day I will be able to see the world like that. I would love to be put on your e-mail list, so I can read all about your exciting travels. When you are done traveling, are you moving from Chicago?
I have been doing well. Actually, I am still looking for tv work in Chicago. It’s a tough market. Do you know of any websites or other places where there are jobs posted? I know of Screen magazine and Reel Chicago.
It was really great to hear from you! Have a safe and wonderful trip and I cannot wait to hear all about it!
Tina Kontos

What a dream come true. I’m jealous! Please add me to your list.
Best of luck,
Hosea

I’ve been out of town, so excuse the late reply.
Congratulations to you!
I’m sorry you’ll be leaving, but this sounds like an amazing journey.
Let me know more about it when you have time.
I’m happy for you!
Amy Morris

I’m actually still kind of in shock! I can’t say that I’m that surprised though, ever since I met you you have always insinuated that there was life after channel 7. You are such a talented person and have always been very ambitious. I know there is so much you want to do and there is an abundance about of success in you future. The deli, photography who knows even a partnership with Stinky Pants Inc. The sky’s the limit for you. All I can say is that I’m REALLY proud of you for doing it…taking a chance and really getting yourself out there.
Luv Ya!! xox, michelle alegria

Hello Lisa!
So nice to hear from you! How did your colleagues take your resignation? I hope they are happy for you.
I was so thrilled to read your e-mail – I really think you have guts, and I’m sure this will be one of the decisions you will always remember as being daring but rewarding.
I want to be on your list and want to follow you virtually on your many travels!
Melanie

Please add me to your e list. I think you’re the only one that’s doing the world traveling right. I have friends that are just going with no plans.
I love your classes! Please keep me up to date, especially with the sister city program and you writing/photography! Have a safe trip.
Tamara

You are a doer! Follow your dream.
Add me to your e-mail list. Use my personal e-mail eric@wagnonmedia.com
Eric Wagnon

Bonjour Lisa,
It was a pleasure meeting you in Montréal. Thank you for the nice pictures and I want to wish you a lot of success for your new adventure.
Best regards,
Mariejose

Hi,
It was great fun working with you..
Keep me posted as you travel…
God’s speed…
Ed

Sorry I haven’t replied sooner, Lisa.
What great news! So exciting. All the very best to you for a wonderful, life-changing adventure.
Good luck!
Julia Ward