Pause in Paradise

Hello friends. You may have noticed I've been silent, and for good reason.

I have decided to walk away from the paradise newsdesk for awhile in order to take care of personal matters. I'm busy using my dorky jokes to help a family member recover from being hit--hard--by a car. I'm also planning to use the time wisely to explore exciting professional opportunities both within the writing world and beyond. Blogging has a way of connecting one with many.

Whether you are reading from a scorching hot military base in the Middle East, on the windswept beach in Coronado, or in the glittering skyscrapers of Hong Kong, your loyalty is much appreciated.

I'll see you soon. Until then, please know you are valued.

Reflection is in order!
Awesomely amateur photo credit: Carrie Keyes

'The Help': Black and White Make Oscar Gold

I'm published over at Patch today, where I explain why I think Tate Taylor and the talented ladies who played in 'The Help' could be headed for Oscar gold. Read the review (click below) for my thoughts on this terrific film. I'll gladly cheer for this cast and crew on Oscar night over a slice of pizza. But please, no Terrible Awful chocolate pie...EW!

'The Help': Black and White Make Oscar Gold
http://patch.com/A-ldgj

Cowboys & Aliens and Chunky Bracelets

Headed out on horseback or in your UFO to see Cowboys & Aliens? Consider this movie review as you plot your wardrobe.

'Cowboys & Aliens' and Chunky Bracelets
by Carrie Keyes
http://patch.com/A-kDTq

John Burnham Schwartz's 'Northwest Corner' a Literary Land You Must Visit

I recently reviewed John Burnham Schwartz's poignant novel 'Northwest Corner.' You may remember Schwartz for his former work Reservation Road starring Jennifer Connelly.

Visit Quench Book Blog or click on the link below to read why 'Northwest Corner' is a literary land you must visit.

'Northwest Corner' a Startling Exploration of American Misery
by Carrie Keyes

'Captain America' Will Grow on You

Headed to Coronado's gorgeous Village Theater this weekend? Holy mother of muscles. Captain America's ripped!

'Captain America' Will Grow on You
Likeable wimp becomes mega-soldier with surprising motivation.
by Carrie Keyes
http://patch.com/A-k2j0

Root 75 Design Shop Plants Itself on Orange Avenue

I had a great time talking with local women Kristy Pierre and Katherine Farley, owners of Root 75, a new design shop "taking root" in Coronado. Root 75 offers unique home accents and modern vintage floral arrangements.

The women are also planning to hold flower arranging classes for both children and adults, and will provide a slight discount for customers who pre-pay for regularly scheduled deliveries.

Root 75 Design Shop Plants Itself on Orange

The new floral and home décor specialist is the brainchild of Coronadans who have been friends since grade school.

by Carrie Keyes

http://coronado.patch.com/articles/root-75-design-shop-plants-itself-on-orange

Movie Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2

Hello there, Muggles. I'm published over at Coronado Patch today about the 10 reasons why I believe 'Deathly Hallows, Part 2' is a wicked good time. You might not be able to teleport yourself there, so break out your wand and give it a click on the link below.

Why 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2' is a Wicked Good Time
by Carrie Keyes
http://patch.com/A-ktDn