After much careful thought and consideration, I’ve decided to not renew my contract at WLOS-TV. After over 13 years in the news business and 11 years at WLOS, it is time for me to look to the future and do something else for a while. My last day at WLOS will be July 31, 2014.
This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, but I keep coming to the same conclusion: I need to make a change. My health has suffered since I started the morning and noon show show 7 years ago and as the hours I work continue to expand I’ve struggled to keep up with the schedule. I decided that waking up at 2:00 AM is not a healthy way for me to live at this point in my life. Some people do it for decades and can handle it, but my body is telling me I need to take a break. Please don’t worry about me though, I don’t have any ailments that my doctors don’t expect to go away once I start actually sleeping at night again!
I am incredibly grateful to the WLOS team for the opportunities they have given me over the past 11 years and I am thankful for the platform they have given me on the news. They brought me to Asheville, and for that I am forever grateful. I know I would not be where I am today without them.
For those of you who have invited me into your homes for so many years, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will honestly miss waking you up every day on WLOS. I hope you will continue to support me as I work on new projects.
I am truly excited about my future and what I am going to be doing. I haven’t hashed out all the details, but I am working on some awesome ideas and opportunities to keep me busy and hopefully still be a small part of your lives. I am open to new partnerships and welcome your help.
First on my to-do list is moving full speed ahead with my blog, Running in a Skirt. Now if you are thinking, “Julie, I don’t RUN!” don’t worry, Running in a Skirt is actually about much more than just running. My lifestyle blog will feature recipes, travel, workouts & fitness ideas, healthy living, fashion, beauty, photography and WNC living with some running on the side. You can think of it as an online magazine with entertainment and information; all with that “wunderful” flare you are used to seeing on the news. Please consider bookmarking my page and checking back here often, I will be posting on my blog much more frequently once I leave the station.
I’ve been blogging for almost two years and have so many fun things already online including a recap of my big adventure to Italy last year, and many awe-inspiring trips in the USA, Central America and the Caribbean. I even wrote about my journey training and running the Chicago Marathon. My most popular recipe to date is the first one I posted: My Award Winning Vegetarian Chili!
My husband and I love Asheville and we are not going anywhere. I hope to continue to find ways to contribute to this community and make this hometown that I love an even better place than it already is.
You can continue to see what I am up to and support my blog by subscribing by e-mail. You can enter your e-mail address on the right hand side of my webpage, www.RunninginaSkirt.com
You can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram.
If you are just hearing about my blog, I’d love for you to check out some of my favorite posts from the past few months that represent the kind of thing I will be doing.
Recipes--->
Chipotle Lime Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw
Parmesan Panko Encrusted Halibut
Grandma Wunder’s Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies
Travel --->
Grown-Up Camp; Barnsley Resort
Fashion --->
WNC Living --->
Fitness & Running --->
The Full Body Circuit Elliptical Workout
My Top 5 Racing Moments in 5 Years of Running
Thanks again for your support, and I will see you soon!
*Updated!*
Check out my Last Day at WLOS recap & So How Are You Doing?
For more posts on my transition back to a "normal" life and how I have been doing post-WLOS check out my monthly updates page!
JULIA A GREER says
Hello Julie,
I don't know you that well, even when you were in television. But I came across you when I was looking at eating healthier and becoming a pescatarian. One of the things you talked about in regards to your journey after leaving a stressful job, I can relate to that as well. I retired last year 2020 from Nursing which is a very high paced, stressful, and demanding job but rewarding. I did it for 35 years. But I want to move in my life with another door to open. I hear you talked about blogging. I have been looking into that a little but not sure if it is to late to start learning since I see most blogger started back years ago when I was working on the hospital floors years ago. It seem very hard to get started and may take years to see the results. I don't want anything to consume all my time, I want a flexible life now and want to work when I want to, not at the demand of others. I wanted to know if this blogging is something you think I could do at my old age of 62 and be able to make a rather moderate income from it. Would like to hear your thoughts. Julia
TOM VELLENOWETH says
JULIE:
SURE MISS YOU AND THAT GREAT SMILE OF YOURS. WHAT HAVE U BEEN UP TO? I HOPE U
ARE HEALTHY NOW. WHAT CAREER PATH DID U FOLLOW? HOPE IT IS EHAT U REALLY WANT.
IF U GET THIS MESSAGE, PLEASE REPLY. I WOULD SURE LIKE TO HERE FROM U. YOUR
GREATEST ADMIRER,
TOM
Manetti says
You are already missed!
The best to you whatever you pursue
Tillman
Sharon White says
gonna miss ya. Was wondering, with your throat, has strep been a problem too? Reason I'm asking, the only thing I remember from pediatrics in nursing was that if a family has a dog and the kids keep getting strep, have the dog checked. Dogs can carry strep but not be affected!! So if it can happen to kids, why not adults too. Keep gettin'better
JulieWunder says
Hi Sharon, I actually haven't had strep issues. That first bad illness I had was an infected trachea and that caused my first and lingering vocal issues.
I had no ideas Dogs can carry it!!! That is crazy. I will keep your tip in mind. Thank you very much.
Bruce Brown says
Y'know, there will always be other personalities on WLOS, but there will only be one Julie Wunder. I thank you for the many hugs and support and for putting up with the silly jokes and antics when we worked together. I expect you to keep that promise of "not being a stranger" .... I hope to, one day, see you brighten the doors of Bruce's Fabulous Foods so I can cook just for you! God Bless, Sunshine!!!
JulieWunder says
Aw Bruce!!! So sweet of you 🙂 Miss you already!
Jo Ann says
Just read this and am so sad! You have been "the sunshine of the morning" for many people, myself included of course and you will be missed. I have followed you since coming to WLOS and will miss your beautiful smile. I pray that you will be happy with wherever you go and whatever you decide is best for you and your family. Hopefully we will see you in the future in some capacity on TV
al fox says
Good luck, I commend your decision to try a more suitable occupation & I'm sure you will like normal sleeping schedule,etc.
Terri Garren says
I'm so sad and very excited for you Julie. I know what those hours are like-my husband worked them a few years ago. NO FUN!! You have been such a joy to see every morning. I will keep up with you on your blog. I just now found out about it!! God Bless You!
hilda sellers says
good luck Julie I watched you all the time. you have pretty clothes.
Peggy Baillie says
I will surely miss waking up to your cheerful smile everyday, but I will surely be looking forward to your blog and wish you a happy and healthy year.
James S. Wilson says
I don't blame you after all cuz I worked the swing shift and hated it but good thing had cometh when I retired after 62, thanks goodness! Whew!! It's not good tho for you at 2am! Ugh!
Rafael Jimenez says
Julie, My wife and I will certainly miss seeing you every morning. Best wishes with your future endeavors!
Rafael & Selena
Annette says
Julie, seems just like yesterday that you came to WLOS.
Times passes by so fast. I encourage you to seek a lifestyle that suits your body and your health. It is very important. After a few years of working night shift I understand what working those hours can do to a person. I have had the same surgery you did and have gone through the same kind of problems. after 15 years, I am still a night owl but on a different level.
I look forward to reading more about what you will be doing. I know whatever you do you will be great at whatever it is.
Shirley says
Hey Julie - I shall truly miss seeing you on 13 for the weather & morning show. I definitely will continue with your Blog. I wish you good health, happiness and sucess with your future endeavors. Please stay in touch.
craig says
This sucks on so many levels Julie! I was hoping that the big announcement was that you were pregnant! I was looking forward to seeing how cute you would look with a pop belly awaiting the addition of baby Julie Wunder!!!! I hope that great miracle happens for you someday if you truly want it to. I've been a huge fan of yours for years and I'm not ashamed to admit that recording your weather/news/special segments over the years has been a hobby of mines!! For ten years I have seen you grow into this incredibly confident, artistic, glamorous woman!!! Whatever you do I will always been rooting for you Julie!!! You have a grand life ahead of you!
Robin Parton says
We certainly are going to miss you, but understand that your hours would break anyone down after a while. Wishing you only the best and will keep following you on your blog.
Robert Blane Sherer says
I will certainly miss you. I wish you all the best in going forward.
Gail Brookshire says
Congratulations on your new adventures. I look forward to reading and seeing what else you have to share. Your recipes are a blessing! Praying for you to have sweet restful nights soon so that you can enjoy a healthy life. God loves you!
Annie @ What's Annie Making says
Congratulations on your big decision and change! I am excited to see more posts from you soon!!!!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Annie!
Zeb Sprinkle says
Hi, I met you at the Livewell expo this year, and I wanted to let you know that you will be missed, but I know that you will still enjoy life, and you will continue bringing smiles to peoples faces!
David says
Julie, they are right it's like a member of the family is going away. even if it's not far !! your smile will be missed a great deal by me and all.
Whatever you do I know you'll do it well, who is going to do Pet Pals, you have the love that is needed??
Davd
Jane says
I'm going to miss you on WLOS, it won't be the same without you! Best wishes with your new endeavors, Julie.
earl says
We are going to miss you JULIE good lucky to
Joyce says
Hi Julie, Sad to see you go, I will miss you..Good luck to you in whatever you decide to do..Will keep up with your blog..Love the healthy recipes you post...Thank you Julie...
Vicki says
I'm glad you are doing what you need to do for you. The weather will never be the same. Please teach Jay not to stand in front of the week-long forecast graphics! Best wishes on your future endeavors!
Stacie @ SimplySouthernStacie says
I know this must have been a tough decision for you! I originally had my heart set on being a news broadcaster, but then I learned about the crazy hours and said no thank you. So, I can't blame you at all. Hoping that the right doors will open up for you next!
JulieWunder says
Thank you Stacie! Sad thing is I knew about the hours, but I thought I could handle it. It was much easier when I was younger and my entire world was work!
gary brown says
sorry to see you go but I do understand pray you are blessed in whatever you decide to do please keep in touch with us GOD bless
Marie g says
Good girl Julie! You've finally made a decision that is soooo very difficult. Your viewers have your back and I am sure your hubs, father and brother have your back also. I definitely want for you what is best for you.....you're just like a sister or daughter! Been watching you every since your first day at WLOS, and yes I will miss you too, you're always so vibrant, fun and a breath of fresh air.
The best of luck to you and no matter what career you choose you will be very successful. I will continue to follow and support you on FB and your blog. Dream BIG...they do come true. Marie G
JulieWunder says
Dream BIG! I love this Marie. I am grateful for your support.
Art Long says
I'm really sorry to hear you won't be on the morning news. You, Holly, and Jay make such a great team! I have always said that family is the most important thing in life, health being second, so I can see why you made the decision. I will continue to follow your blog here and I wish the best for you in the future!
JulieWunder says
Thank you Art! Holly and Jay will do a great job with or without me. I appreciate your support!
Amy Ostwalt says
Hi Julie,
So sad to see you leave WLOS, but you have to do what is right for you and your family. I love following your blog and will continue to follow you. I live here in Asheville and we have some mutual friends thru the station. I actually have a business opportunity/ idea for you that I would love to share. Please feel free to email me at amyostwalt@gmail.com and perhaps we can work out a time to chat so I can fill you in.
JulieWunder says
Thanks Amy! I'll send you an e-mail!
Cindy Dixon-Owen says
Sorry to hear this news, you will be missed, BUT hard decisions have to be made in life and it sounds like you are making the right one for you and your life. We don't look back and regret things we done, no need for that. But we regret the things we didn't do when we had the chance. Best wishes to you Julie and I will be readying your blog.
Susan says
Wow Julie, You will truly be missed. What a lovely smile each morning. I wish you nothing bu the best in your future. I WILL be keeping up with you and hopefully will run into you in Asheville somewhere. Good Luck
Allen says
You will be missed but your health is much more important than My morning weather, well nnot by much but still. 🙂 Do take care and hope you find a new project where your wits, looks and carisma again can bless our screens.
rachel boyce deville says
I am sadden knowing you are leaving WLOS we get up every morning at 5am to watch the news , and you will be deeply missed by so many , we always can count on your weather and your beautiful smile , you are a kind and caring person so yes we will deeply miss seeing you on the news , but at the same time you much do what is best for you and your husband but most of all your health , we wish you all the happiness in the worls and we wish you the best on your new life , just maybe from time to time you can fill in for some one and we can see you on the best news channel on t.v , may god be with you and best of luck JULIE and god bless you and your family
Jaime says
I'm excited for you! I know this is a huge decision for you (and your husband) and I know everything will work out. It is definitely scary leaving a career you know so well, but bigger and even better things are going to happen - I'm sure of it!
(Now we really need to get together and run sometime!)
JulieWunder says
Yes! We need to get together!
Teresa Smith says
Julie, I am saddened that you are leaving WLOS but wish you the best in your future endeavors. What ever it is I am sure you will succeed. Thanks for all your dedication to the viewers of WLOS and for your friendship and help with the WNC BBQ Festival. Maybe you'll be able to come out and join us now.
shirley says
I agree, you, Holly and Jay have been a great team to watch in the mornings. You will be missed but I wish you the best in whatever you do. Maybe more normal hours will be good for you and your hubby. God Bless you and lead you to what's right for you.
James Cannon says
Will miss you very much! May Good fortune be with you in any new endeavors.
Vickie says
Julie I wish you the best of luck and will miss seeing you interact with Jay and Holly on the news every morning. You all make such a great team. I will be one of you many followers on your blog. Good luck in whatever you decide!!
Mary says
Congratulations on your decision. Change is not always easy but sometimes necessary. I support you in your exciting new endeavors.
Cindy says
I am sad that you are leaving WLOS, but know that you will do some creative, exciting things in the months and years to come. Please continue to take care of yourself! I love your blog and will enjoy reading more posts!
gwen hefner hawley says
Julie,
All the best too you.Will miss seeing you reporting weatherEnjoy your breakHope you recover fully i n near future.
Betty Hicks says
Julie so sorry to hear that you are leavin WLOS , but so glad you will be here in Asheville. I wish you you the best of luck with your future plans and get some of that needed sleep that you need.Sending lots of hugs your way! Betty.
Laura says
Julie, my family will certainly miss you on the news, but we are excited for your future plans, and will support you any way we can!
Hope to see you out on the roads or at a race soon!
Chris says
You've had an outstanding run!! Your courage is an inspiration to anyone needing to make a necessary change... as some of us are now, I'm sure. 'Vision' is knowing when it is time to move on. Godspeed!! Thanks for keeping us appraised.
JulieWunder says
Thank you Chris!
ronfrankl says
Wow, that's a big decision but an understandable one, too. Best wishes and good luck, Julie; glad to hear you're staying in Asheville.
John Payne says
Julie, How can you say Goodbye to a Family Member? Everyday I'm sure you are told by so many unknown people that you are just a member of there Family. But you are like a sister to us. We talk about what you had said, laughed about, the advise you have given us. We worry when we don't see you thinking something might be wrong and always lifting you up in prayer as we do for all of our family. You will never know how much you mean to all of us and even though we only see you part of the day we can always count on seeing and hearing you making us feel better because your around. Don't think for a second that you won't be missed. Because you have filled a spot in all of our hearts that only you fit into. We want to wish you all the best no matter which road you travel. Always reach out to us your extended family to let us know how you are and what you are up to. May God richly bless you and keep you
Lisa says
Going to miss your beautiful, smiling face and vibrant personality, but you have to do what is best for you. I wish you well, and will continue to read your blog and follow you on Facebook and Twitter. God bless!
Joanne says
Best wishes to you and the "hubs" in the future. Time for "your" family.
Angela says
Julie, Congrats on making such a Big decision... I understand how hard these are to make. Sometimes in life you need to do what is best for YOU. Your health is very important and I couldn't imagine waking up at 2AM every morning. Your body is meant to rise with the sun and rest with the sun going down. Today is actually my last day at my engineering company and I am feeling very similar to you. I am not sure if I will ever return back to corporate America or engineering but I have to try this out and do what is best for me. You are extremely talented and inspire so many and I know you will continue to do so. Good luck! You have the support of many!
-Angela
JulieWunder says
Thank you Angela! I'm looking forward to following your adventures too!
Jean says
Good Luck Julie, we will miss you. My body would not like getting up at 2am either. I would not have lasted as long as you did. Best to you whatever you decide to do.
Robert Palin says
You will be sorely missed on WLOS. I am relatively new to Asheville but loved tuning in each morning. I wish you luck in any new adventure you pursue. Although you probably don't need luck. Your success is practically guaranteed by your energy and practical approach to life. Godspeed!
Sharon VH says
Julie, you've always been our Wunder Woman and it sounds like your new venture is nothing less. Wish you all the best in whatever comes your way. I will miss your smiling face and weather comments at noon!! 😉