#TenThingsYouMayNotKnow – About #GwenM.Plano

/ Marcia Meara

Today,  I’d like everyone to welcome one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet online to The Write Stuff:  my good friend and fellow author, Gwen M. Plano. Gwen,  the floor is all yours!

Thanks so much, Marcia. It’s a pleasure to be here today!

Ten Things You May Not Know About Me
by Gwen M. Plano

  1. When I was about 5 or 6 years old, I told my mom that I wanted to be a priest when I grew up. She explained that I couldn’t because I was a girl. This upset me, but decades later, through unexpected circumstances, I ended up studying with seminarians and earning a degree in theology and a degree in pastoral counseling – the same degrees that priests earn. 
  1. Dad taught me to drive when I was 11 years old. He thought I was mature enough and, on the farm, this was an important skill. As it turned out, the following year, I had to drive my mom to the emergency room (about 13 miles away). This action probably saved her life. 
  1. While a student at the University of San Francisco, I saw the Grateful Dead perform in Golden Gate Park. This was before they were famous. Attendees just sat on the grass or danced ecstatically. I did both, and the Dead remain my favorite band. 
  1. One evening my boyfriend and I walked through the Panhandle. We didn’t get far before flashing lights stopped us. Two police officers got out and questioned us about what we were doing. They concluded that we were clueless and harmless and told us to get in the cruiser. They drove us back to campus and instructed us not to walk at night in that area. This would be my only ride in a police car. 
  1. That same year, I enrolled in Speech. For the final exam, students were allowed to choose their topic to present to the class. I decided to do something different. I brought my Gibson to the classroom and sang an original song. To my surprise, everyone loved it – even the professor. She said this was a “first” for her. 
  1. In 1970, I attended grad school at Purdue University. I lived in a farmhouse about 15 minutes away from the campus. One night I saw two UFOs, as did the locals. Terrified, I called the police. They asked if I had been drinking, which I hadn’t, then they told me to call the airport. That responder told me to call the Air Force Base, which I did. The Airman said, “We haven’t seen anything unusual.” I still wonder about his response. 
  1. I lived in Japan for five years, and during that time, I became proficient in Chanoyu (Tea Ceremony) and Ikebana (flower arrangement). I also studied calligraphy. These ancient arts are a form of meditation, and their silence remains with me today. 
  1. In the 1990s I was an administrator at a Jesuit university in Connecticut. On weekends, I’d take groups of students into the inner city, where we worked in soup kitchens and other sites. When school was out, I led student volunteers into poverty stricken areas of Mexico. We lived with the people and helped as we could. One trip is particularly memorable. It was during an election and riots broke out in the area and guns were used. I huddled with the students, and thankfully, the next day was quiet. 
  1. On the yummy side of the world, I love dark chocolate and when I write, it is my constant friend. And…I never count these calories. 
  1. To conclude, nature is my greatest solace and I bring it into my home – with plants, crystal clusters, and images of beautiful settings. Being in nature calms my soul.

BLURB:

The Culmination, a new beginning is the third book in The Contract thriller series. After an assassination attempt on an Air Force base in northern California, tensions mount. Heads of state meet to craft a denuclearization agreement. The meetings between these nuclear powers take a murderous turn. A nefarious conspiracy re-emerges and leads the characters into the heart of the Middle East, where they encounter the unexpected and find a reason for hope.

A review by Mae Clair: 5 out of 5 stars
A Political Thriller with Strong Characters

Book three in a series, The Culmination reads easily as a standalone novel. A political thriller, that addresses denuclearization, tensions in the Middle East, and the fate of refugees, much of the story echoes current headlines. The plot is complex involving multiple heads of state, along with the strategical give and take of political maneuvering on a global level. The author clearly put an extensive amount of research into this book, and it shows. Adrenalin-fueled scenes alter with more cerebral moments, and even a few romantic interludes.

I especially loved the evolution of the relationship between the two central characters, Margaret Adler, VP of the United States and Ivan Smirnov, acting President of Russia. During the course of the novel those titles change, and we learn more about each, including richly developed backgrounds. I was thoroughly invested in the difficulties Margaret and Ivan faced, both on personal and political levels. Their scenes together were among my favorites of the book. There’s also a young refugee child who factors into the story and who stole my heart.

A unique combination of character-driven and plot-driven fiction, I recommend this compelling tale to readers who enjoy strong character development and complexly-plotted intrigue.

You can Buy The Culmination HERE

Author Gwen M. Plano

Gwen M. Plano, aka Gwendolyn M. Plano, grew up in Southern California and spent most of her professional life in higher education. She taught and served as an administrator in colleges in Japan, New York, Connecticut, and California. Gwen’s academic background is in theology and counseling. She is now retired and lives in Arizona with her husband.

Gwen’s first book is an acclaimed memoir, Letting Go into Perfect Love. Her next three books (The Contract co-authored by John W. Howell, The Choice, and The Culmination) are political/military thrillers. Action-packed, they span the globe and involve multiple Heads of State and the threat of World War III. Her conclusion – only love can change the fate of humanity.

When Gwen is not writing, she’s out and about in the beautiful northern Arizona mountains, where she finds inspiration.

You can find Gwen’s Books on Amazon here:

Author Page for Memoir
Letting Go Into Perfect Love
***
Author Page for Thrillers
The Contract
The Choice
The Culmination

You can reach Gwen on Social Media here:

Blog
Twitter
Facebook

 

 

 

93 thoughts on “#TenThingsYouMayNotKnow – About #GwenM.Plano”

  2. This is such a great series, Marcia. The fact I loved the most was Gwen bringing her guitar to speech class and signing an original song for the class—now that’s badass! I wish I would have thought of it.

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    • Hahahaha. Even truly good and sweet people can do “badass” things now and then, eh? And I agree about her handling her class assignment in such an original way! I’m so glad you are enjoying this series, Pete, and don’t forget … YOU are invited to take part, too. Thanks for stopping by and taking a moment to let us know you enjoyed Gwen’s post! 😀 ❤

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    • LOL, thank you Pete. For some reason, playing my guitar was less scary than standing in front of the class alone. The reverse would be true now. 😂

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    • Good points, Jackie! I concur with your assessment, and I’m so glad you enjoyed Gwen’s list this morning. I think she would highly approve of YOUR adventures, too, and can’t wait to share your #TenThings post! Thanks so much for stopping by today and taking a moment to say hello! 😀 ❤

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  4. A fantastic Ten Things! What a wonderful life you’ve led, Gwen. Of course, we both know, you burn those calories right off as you write 😉😉😉! Your spirit shines through in your life, my friend. Hugs 💕🙂

    Marcia, thanks so much for sharing Gwen’s Ten Things today. Hugs 💕🙂

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  5. I loved seeing one of my favorite bloggers and writer take the spotlight today. Letting Go into Perfect Love revealed a few of these interesting facts, but it was great to learn more. Gwen has lived a fascinated life. Thanks for sharing, Marcia! xo

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    • I agree completely, Jill, on every point. Though I haven’t (yet) read Letting Go Into Perfect Love, I know what a caring and kind person Gwen is, and learning more about her was a great pleasure! So glad you enjoyed her post this morning, and thanks for stopping by and taking a moment to say hello! 😀 ❤

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  7. Gwen! So nice to learn more about you. And I didn’t think I could adore you more. I love all ten of your things, but I’m going to be thinking about the UFO story all day. Great post!

    Marcia, thanks for sharing.

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    • It was a great pleasure to have Gwen here today, Staci, and I’m really glad you enjoyed her post. I thought her list was truly amazing, including the UFOs. Thanks so much for stopping by today and taking a moment to say hello. It’s greatly appreciated! 😀 ❤

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    • Thank you so much, Staci. BTW, when I shared my UFO experience with a priest, he smiled and said, “why would God only put life on one planet?” Perfect question, right? 😊

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    • So glad you enjoyed Gwen’s list, Priscilla! I thought it was rather amazing, myself, and it was a pleasure to share it! Thanks for stopping by this morning and taking the time to say hello! 😀 ❤

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    • Thank you, Priscilla. LOL. I think that area was a hotspot for some odd reason, per the local farmers. As for the Grateful Dead, they were amazing. Going to college in SF during the 60s was an unforgettable experience for sure. 😊

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  10. Well, that was pretty amazing! Gwen’s underlying strength of character is there from the start and she’s clearly someone who doesn’t just ‘talk’ about things but ‘does’ them, too. Her degrees in theology and pastoral counseling, driving her mother to the emergency room aged 12, and helping out in soup kitchens and the poverty-stricken areas of a perilous Mexico all paint a picture of someone with a beautiful heart and soul that’s backed by grit!
    I’m really loving this series, Marcia. xx

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    • I’m so glad you are enjoying this series, Trish, and especially happy you enjoyed Gwen’s post today. It really is filled with amazing stories from someone who “walks the walk,” eh? A beautiful heart and soul that’s backed by grit, indeed! Thanks so much for stopping by today, and for taking the time to leave a comment. It’s greatly appreciated! 😀 ❤

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    • Thank you so very much, Trish. Growing up on a farm, with strong and loving parents, shaped who I am. I’m forever grateful to them both. 💗

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  12. Great list, Gwen! You’ve definitely had some memorable experiences. I’m jealous you got to spend some time in Japan. Visiting there is a bucket list item for me. And I love being around nature, too. Maybe because I’m a Taurus. I’ve yet to see a UFO, but think it would be neat to see one.

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    • Really glad you enjoyed Gwen’s list, Jeanne. It was such a pleasure to share all those interesting tidbits here today. And Gwen’s love of nature is special to me, as well, even though I’m a Pisces. (We fishes like the wild places best of all! 😊) Thanks for stopping by this morning and taking a moment to say hello! 😀 ❤

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    • I’m really glad you enjoyed Gwen’s post today, John. I was very happy to share such an interesting and varied list, and to learn even more about her. Thanks for stopping by and taking a moment to say hello, and also for that scientifically proven tidbit about dark chocolate. Good to know. 😂😂😂

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    • Thank you, John. I totally agree about the lack of calories in dark chocolate. LOL. I turn to it throughout the day and it miraculously makes me feel even better about life. 💗

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  14. This post is so wonderful! Gwen – I wish you lived nearby. I have a feeling we could sit down and talk for hours. Your life is fascinating, as well as the choices in your educational development and your career. I applaud it all. Just bought Culmination as a paperback, figuring both my guy and I will enjoy it. Marcia – GREAT post. 🙂

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  15. Thank you, Marcia, for inviting me to your lovely site today. Your kindness overwhelms me and I’m forever grateful. Thank you for being beautiful YOU. 💗

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    • Methinks we have a mutual admiration society, here. 😊 (Remember that old song?) It was a true pleasure to have you visit us today, Gwen, and I’m loving how much everyone enjoys reading your list! As for kindness and gratitude, back atcha, my friend! Getting to know you has been a wonderful experience, and one of the great things (and people) blogging has brought into my life! Thank you again for taking part in this series, and know that you are ALWAYS welcome to visit The Write Stuff! 🤗❤️🤗

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  16. Gwen, Your adventurous spirit is refreshing and inspiring. We share a love for dark chocolate and nature. I thought I had seen a UFO, only to discover later that it was a meteor. You must be patient, observant, and have a very good memory if you became proficient in Chanoyu. I had the opportunity to participate in a beautiful tea ceremony. Although I have a lovely Ikebana, I would benefit from some floral arrangements from you. Continue to write and sing through life.

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    • Thank you so much, Suzy. With my move to the high desert in Arizona, I donated many of my Chanoyu items, including the iron kettle. Now this beautiful art form is cherished in my heart and someone else is holding the items dear. 💗

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  17. I absolutely LOVE this list, Gwen! I learned so much about you. Our souls definitely connect through dark chocolate, nature, and meditation. You’ve lived an interesting life with incredible experiences. Thanks for sharing these with us. Marcia, this series is one of my favorites. 🙂

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    • Thank you so much, Yvette. I suspect we’ve many areas of sisterhood. 😊 I always feel that connection when I read your work. Big hugs… 🤗

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  18. Gwen, you are such a special woman, and this post just reconfirms it for me. You are a shining light in an otherwise dark world. I love your list, and all the many different paths your life has taken are just amazing. Thank you for sharing these tidbits, and thank you, Marcia, for hosting Gwen today!

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    • Thank you so much, Jan. We’ve all had incredible journeys, and though we may not have realized it at the moment, even the hurdles were gifts. 💗

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  19. Wow, Gwen has led such an interesting life! I learned more about her through this post, and found it fascinating. A great 10 Things! I especially loved the UFO sighting, but then I’m drawn to the odd, LOL.

    Have a great day, ladies!

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  23. A great and fascinating list, Gwen. I never liked being told I couldn’t do something because I was a girl growing up 🙂 Growing up in the Bay Area the Grateful was a part of that experience. It was wonderful the police helped you out. I’ve experienced seeing a UFO too, it is still such a vivid memory. We share the same love of nature, I keep it close too.

    Thanks, Marcia for this great blog series!

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  24. Marcia and Gwen, if you lived next door to Pam Wight, maybe I could move there, too? I’d love to be neighbors with all three of you. This was such a great post. Gwen, thank you for sharing your Ten Things with us. Your books sound fascinating.

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    • Sounds like a good time to me, Amy! Where do I sign up? 😁

      So glad you enjoyed Gwen’s post and thanks so much for stopping by to let us know! 😀 ❤

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  26. Gwen is one of the nicest people in Blogland, Marcia. It was wonderful learning more about her here. I’m also a pastoral counselor and was delighted to find we have that in common. I love the stories about wandering in the panhandle and the UFOs and the Grateful Dead. And of course, probably saving her mom’s life! Thanks to you both for the fun post!

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  27. It is so great to learn more about Gwen. It’s true, on the farm you learn to drive at a young age and it looks like it was a good thing you did, Gwen. You’ve had an interesting life.

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      • *blushing here, Gwen* And I’ve been away for a couple of days, or I would have shared that tidbit with you sooner. SO great to have you visit us here on TWS! Can’t wait for you to stop by again! 😀 ❤

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    • So glad you enjoyed Gwen’s fantastic post, Bette, and even though I’m late responding, I’m really pleased you stopped by to let us know! Thanks so much! 😀 ❤

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  29. Great read, what interesting times Gwen has had. I believe her about the UFOs, of course the Air Force would claim not to have seen anything! I did ask My RAF son if he had seen any UFOs, but added ‘well I bet you aren’t allowed to tell me if you did!’ When he went on exercises and then a three year exchange to the USA they were forbidden to fly over Area 51; sent straight back to the UK if they did.

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    • That’s pretty intriguing, Janet! Thanks for sharing that with us. And I’m really glad you enjoyed Gwen’s post, even though I’m late responding to you. Very glad you stopped by! 😀 ❤

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  30. Another dark chocolate fan here, Gwen! It’s a universal fact that any calories consumed while writing don’t count – in my universe, anyway. Enjoyed learning more about you – thanks for hosting, Marcia!

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    • I’m so glad you enjoyed Gwen’s post, Teri. Fantastic, wasn’t it? I apologize for being this late in responding, but it wasn’t because I didn’t care about your comment, honest! Happy dark chocolate munching, and thanks for taking the time to say hi! 😀 ❤

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  31. Loved learning more about Gwen here. Couldn’t help but thinking indeed Gwen saw a UFO as there is so much controversy on the subject of Roswell. I also loved that Gwen learned how to drive at 11. My husband grew up on a farm and was driving a tractor at aged 8! By aged 14 he was doing truck hauls within his township. A totally different era! Kudos to Gwen for all her accomplishments. ❤

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    • Glad you enjoyed Gwen’s post, Debby. I was so pleased to have her visit us and share some of her life’s story! I’ve always wondered about Roswell, too, and today’s news is filled with UFO sightings again. Strange stuff, indeed. And while I didn’t learn to drive on a farm at quite such a young age, it WAS a different era. I had my Learner’s Permit at 14 and could drive anywhere, as long as there was a licensed driver in the passenger seat until age 16. Not quite as shocking, but different from today, for sure.

      Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to say hello! 😀 ❤

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