I saw The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel last weekend in the theater, and it really got me thinking about my own life.
I was married very young, so I went from the security of my parents directly to the security of having a husband, and when the marriage ended a few years ago, I had no idea how to live life on my own. None.
I didn’t even have the security of being surrounded with my children, as they had both gone off to college.
I knew that if I stayed in my hometown surrounded by family and near my ex-husband, I would be tempted to stay with him, and I would never get stronger and find myself.
I had to leave.
So I moved across the country by myself.
It was the biggest chance I’ve ever taken, and it was completely terrifying and I grieved deeply for the life and love I had left behind.
But ultimately it led me to where I am now — living a very secure and happy life on my own, while dating the most loving, caring and wonderful boyfriend a girl could ever want.
#LoveBlooms…. again.
Taking chances in life, no matter how old you are can lead to the greatest blessings.
I think that’s why The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel really hit home for me. The characters in the movie are much older than I am, and they didn’t take the same chances I did, but their risks were every bit as real.
I think we can all relate to the fear of going outside your comfort zone in order to try something new. Sometimes the greatest rewards come from the greatest risks.
Oh, and by the way, this is the follow-up to the popular The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and Sonny is back, as hilarious as ever and a heck of a great dancer!
Visit the Official Website
Like The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel on Facebook
Follow on Pinterest here and here
#LoveBlooms
See The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in theaters now.
This post was sponsored by Fox Searchlight Pictures. All opinions are my own.
myrabev says
I so agree what you mean it can be scary and daunting to leave everything you know and love but once you take the step and see the amazing things awaiting for you its worth it. I can not wait to see the movie
Katherine says
Although I don’t go to the movies, I like the basis of this one. And I’m glad that you have been able to start a new life.
Mens Flip Flops says
Love this movie and love your story ! You are a very brave woman, well done you!
Peachy @ The Peach Kitchen says
It’s nice to know that you’ve found a second chance at love. I hope I get to see The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel as well
Mommy Peach says
I just found out that this is showing here in theaters next month. yay! I’ll get to see it.
Lena says
Oh my, some serious life changing stages – looks like an interesting movie
Maggie says
Very courageous moving across country by yourself! Sometimes, we have to go where life takes us.
Amanda Love says
I was actually just looking to see what was in the movies to watch today and noticed this was one of them. Luckily I came on here and found out a bit more about it. I just might end up going to see it later this afternoon.
Giveaways 4 Mom says
This is my first time hearing of this movie. I am going to have to check it out though because it seems interesting.
sandra davis says
What courage you have. When I divorced I moved to a different town about 2 hours away. But 5 years later, I moved back and things got better. You are so right about taking chances. If not you might regret it forever.
Pamela Gurganus says
I can’t wait to see this movie! I loved the first one and I know I’ll love this one too. I’m very happy for you that you took a risk and that it worked out so well for you. I don’t do change well and am very secure in my routine, life, etc., but every now and again something comes up where taking a risk just might be the best thing that ever happened! And it has a couple of times. I’m glad at those times I was brave enough to step outside my comfort zone. Thank you for sharing with your readers and followers. 🙂
April @ Everyday Fitness and Nutrition says
This sounds like such a great story! Life changes so much over time and it can be such an adventure!
Cherri Megasko says
I couldn’t agree with you more. I led a pretty conservative life up until about 15 years ago. Since that time I have flourish, and I can thank risk-taking for almost everything positive in my life now.
JR FrugalMom says
I love that you were able to make that move by yourself. It takes a lot of courage, and a lot of people wouldn’t have made the move.
I can so follow you. Like you I married young too, but even though I’m still with my husband I need change. For this reason we are making a move too, and even though it is a move we are making together, it is a move to keep us happy.
Tammy S says
Good for you Liz! It takes a lot of courage to uproot yourself and leave your friends and family. Sometimes it’s what you need to get out of the rut. This movie looks so good!! I can’t wait to see it.
Pinay Mommy Online says
Looks like a very interesting story. I want to watch this movie too.
As for Dev Patel, it’s good to see him again after Slumdog Millionaire in 2008.
Censie says
I have read a lot about this. Looks great!
Amanda O. says
I didn’t know that about you. What a fascinating story – I’m glad everything worked out in the end.
Tiffany Cutcliff says
I am so excited to watch this movie! I love Sonny! Thanks for such a great post!
Melanie says
Awww, I love this post. It was so brave of you to move so far away and start fresh. It takes so much courage to do that. I’m so happy you are able to share it with someone special!!
Lisa Rios says
Sounds like a great story & I agree, Love is all about taking chances! I already heard a lot about this movie and I am eagerly waiting to watch this one. Thanks for sharing this.
valerie g says
This looks like it’s going to be an awesome movie. All the actors in it are awesome.
Life as a Convert says
This is actually an interesting story. I cannot imagine having no security after having lived like that for basically your whole life. I bet it was scary to make that move.
cgould4178 says
I’ve got to see this movie. I have heard so many great things about it. Thanks for sharing!
Yona Williams says
Taking chances and risks are a healthy part of life…I’ve been taking a few more often over the years.
dickvincedorry says
i’ll surely watch this movie… looks like have a great story
Rebecca Swenor says
I have heard a lot of good things about this movie and can’t wait to see it. Isn’t it funny how some movies just make us think bout our own lives? Them are the best movies. Thanks for sharing.
Barbara Montag says
I so want to see this movie – fantastic cast!
And if you’re not taking chances you’re not living.
Bonnie @ wemake7 says
I would have been a petrified as well moving so far away. I’m so glad that you found a really great boyfriend.=)
Mally says
That’s so sweet that you’ve found a good man. In my opinion, he’s found an equally great woman.
Cheryl says
I loved the first movie and know I’ll like this one equally as well — especially with Richard Gere in it.
{Erica}EverythingMomandBaby says
We live once. I say if we can, given circumstances.. give it a chance and go for it! We’re never guaranteed tomorrow.
Stefani Tolson says
So today I seen the trailer when I was watching the news earlier. I think I might just have to see this one.
Chrystal @ YUM eating says
I am in that position now. I fear that our marriage is not going to survive the turmoil that has consistently surrounded us for the life of our time together. But, I know if I don’t move – far – I will just continue to stay here. I have never been on my own. I went right from living with my mother, to college, to husband, to divorce back to moms, to boyfriend now husband. This really looks like a movie I need to watch.
Digna D. says
Sometimes change comes for a reason. Taking chances can be difficult for anyone. I have a problem with deciding, however, when it comes to trying something new, I always jump in with both feet. It’s pretty scary but it’s better to get it over with then stress and worry about it.
Echo says
I think this movie looks great. Every time I see the preview, I tell my husband that I want to see it. I can definitely see how it hits home for you.
Christie says
How brave for your to share your story. I find that everyone has a movie that they identify with. Glad you found yours
Bismah says
I have seen many clips of this movie. It seems very interesting!
Melissa Vera says
I have heard that this is a good movie. Can’t wait to see it.
Chubskulit Rose says
Great job in moving forward and happy for you that you found another great love in your life. I would love to watch this movie, looks like something I would really enjoy!
Chubskulit Rose says
Isn’t Sonny the guy from Slumdog Millionaire movie? I like him as an actor.
Sophie O'Reilly says
I have been wanting to see this movie for ages! I strongly believe in taking chances, after all we only get one life!
Lynndee says
I love taking changes. You never know what you’re going to miss if you don’t take it. And I totally agree with this, “Taking chances in life, no matter how old you are can lead to the greatest blessings.”
Terri Ramsey Beavers says
Good for you for making a change for the better. I did the same thing years ago and am very happy and content with my life. I’d love to see The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.
Beth says
Always important to take chances in life! I really want to see this movie when it comes out! 😀
michele d says
Taking chances in life means your living. If we don’t, we will never learn from them. Second chances don’t come to most but I will agree with you, happiness comes. Definitely will check out this movie.
Cynthia C says
I applaud your bravery and admire your willingness to take a risk. I’m happy things worked out so well for you.
Amanda says
This looks like a great movie. I can’t wait to see it!
Jennifer B says
I haven’t seen this movie yet but it looks really good! I love movies with a little romance too!
Jess Weaver says
How courageous you are. 🙂 This sounds like a great movie!
Rosey says
Taking chances can lead to very happy things. We took chances too, though not the same kind, and though I’m still trying to bloom where I’m planted (I have snow issues, lol), I know for a fact I wouldn’t have had my last little boy if I hadn’t relocated across country when I did. He makes every thing I don’t like about moving seem trivial…though I’ve never really thought about it that way until just this second (so thank you). 🙂 Looking forward to seeing the movie.
s.w. says
This could really inspire someone who may feel the same way.
Shaney Vijendranath says
I watched the first one and I loved it even though the actors are wayyyy older than me! I’m looking forward to watching the second one. The first one had a great story so I’m excited to see what the second one is about.
Lesley says
I haven’t seen the first one. This looks really good, right up my genre of movies. I’ll have to check it out.
Heather says
You know I’m kind of the same way. I got married young, divorced, then got married again and we have two children. Now of course everything is fine in our marriage but I do think about the day that maybe my husband passes away and I’m left alone. I can’t imagine how that would be for me. I would be very lost and of course sad.
Jenny says
This sounds like a great movie. Sometimes movie far away is a great way to get a restart on life!
Sarh S says
You are very brave! I as well if I had the chance, the means, etc., I would travel FAR AWAY, but not really to find love, just a fresh start.
Maria says
This looks like something I would enjoy! I have traveled on my own but only for a few days out of the week. I love my family but one day, I will travel alone and i’m okay with that!
Shell says
I love the chance you took! When I moved here, I knew no one and had only seen it once for a few hours. It was scary!
Can’t wait to see this movie.
Theresa says
I am terrified to even travel by myself. I don’t know how I would feel moving away all by myself. You are a brave woman and one tough cookie!
Debra says
I think this movie looks so fun! I want to see it!
Danielle H says
I am so deeply impressed by your story. I too went straight from living at home with my family to living with my fiance who became my husband. We’ve been married for 7 years and things are great, but I truly do not know what I would do if something went wrong. You are such a strong woman. Be proud mama!
Autumn @Mamachallenge says
Sounds like a really great movie! I will have to watch it!
Alissa Apel says
That must have been such are hard step for you. Way to go girl!
Tammilee Tips says
This sounds like a good movie!! Its crazy were life takes you and the end results of the journey.
Chrysa says
I LOVED the first movie and can’t wait to see the new one. Thanks for the updates on the film.
Crystal says
I commend your bravery in starting out anew. It can be so challenging to take that first step. It sounds like you’re exactly where you need to be now!
Trisha says
This sounds like a fantastic film and what a great cast! I didn’t get to see The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel so maybe I should watch it before checking this one out!
Stephanie says
You are so brave! Good for you! I have never seen these movies- I’ll have to watch them. Thanks for sharing.
April @ Everyday Fitness and Nutrition says
That is so brave to make such a huge change in your life! I’m so glad it worked out so well for you!
Patty H says
Bravo Liz. I give you kudos for being so brave. Youre amazing!
vidya sudarsan says
I loved the first one! The movie was well taken and the settings were authentic.. I look fwd to part 2.
Tiany says
Good for you, Liz! Bravery at its finest! I have always tried very hard to not lose myself or rely to heavily on those around me. Not always easy but something I felt I needed to do for ME. I can’t wait to see this movie, Judi Dench is one of my all time favorite actresses, she’s brilliant! 🙂
Jenny Temcio says
I have heard the first one of these was really good! I’ll have to see for myself!
Krista Blackburn says
I don’t think I would ever have the courage to do something like this! Good job to you!
rochkirstin says
You are an inspiration for being brave and courageous in life. Leaving my comfort zone now (in terms of career/work) is a bit difficult so I’m just taking it one day at a time.
Tonisha says
I have not seen the first one… but after this post, maybe i should spend the day watching both!! You are very brave to move cross country alone, I don’t know if I could do that … maybe cross the state lol.
Melissa says
Okay, I need to see the first one and this one! I hear such great things!
Stefani Tolson says
That must have been scary to move across the country by yourself. I have been stuck in the same area for my whole life because I am afraid to leave my family, especially my grandparents. I haven’t heard of this movie but it sounds good.
Veronica says
I am glad you found love again. Sometimes you have to walk away and move far away for a fresh start. That movie looks like one I would like to watch
Heather D. (@GirlGoneMom) says
I was supposed to see the premiere in NY earlier this month but I just couldn’t get there. Glad it’s good!
Elizabeth O. says
Love your insight about this movie. I’m scared about going out my comfort zone, though.
Debbie Denny says
I have to go see this. Sounds awesome.
vanessa: brite&bubbly says
I enjoyed the first movie and I’m sure I’ll enjoy the second one. Looks like it’s going to be a blast to watch.
Marcie W. says
I really enjoyed reading your story Liz and can actually relate since I have yet to live on my own. Love the idea of taking chances in life, especially since time passes so quickly.
ourfamilyworld says
I went from the comfort of my home to the comfort of a husband. I took a chance . Life is about this right? I would love to see this movie
Carol Cassara says
I saw the movie and simply was not ready for it to end. I hope there is part 3! I remarried my 1st husband…we were too young the first time but just right now!
Jenn says
I didnt see the first one but I will now. Seems like a really good movie, I love a movie that I can relate to! I love how your story turned out 🙂 bigger the risk bigger the reward.
Dee Mauser says
I’ve not seen this movie or heard much about it but it sounds pretty good. I too got married at a young age and sadly that marriage only lasted 2 years. But something good happened afterwards, I met the love of my life and we’ve been together for over 23 years!
Ty says
Can’t believe I haven’t heard of this until now! Looks like this is going to be such a fun movie!
Ashley @irishred02 says
I need to read the first one. I think Dev Patel is a great actor I’m happy to see his career taking off!
Stacey- Travel Blogger says
I love Richard Gere! He is such a great actor! I will have to go see this.
Pam says
I didn’t see the first movie so I need to do that first. I know this is something that I would really enjoy and I love all of the actors and actresses in this movie too.
Amy D says
This movie looks like it will be fun. I still have to catch up on the first. Wonder if it is on Netflix?
Nina Say says
He is a wonderful dancer, you are right! I am always amazed by that,
Lisa @bitesforbabies says
Wow! Kudos to you…that is such a courageous thing to do!!! I’ve never even heard of this movie but you have definitely sparked my interest!
Heather Lawrence says
Just saw the preview for this movie last night actually.
Love Richard Gear he is one of my favorite actors.
Bismah says
I had no idea that there was a first part to this movie. I keep seeing clips during television commercials of this movie and it looks like a good one to see!
Lesley says
I definitely need to get the first one and watch it. This look excellent. Definitely something I would enjoy! I need to get out from behind the computer more.
Ora Lee Gurr says
Where was I when the first movie came out? Obviously I have some catching up to do and a new film to watch, The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.
Crystal says
I can’t believe I still haven’t seen the first one. I really think both films are things I would enjoy. I need to catch up!
Pam says
I know I’ve seen the first one, but I can’t really remember it. I need to rematch it before I see this one.
Pam says
This looks like such a great movie. I love Dev Patel, he’s a great actor.
Lorane says
I’m on my transitional journey from 9-5 to 24 hour Entrepreneur journey. Its scary , but I’m hopeful. I’ve seen clips of the Movie and I need to watch it. Great recommendation
Maggie says
Thanks for sharing your personal story. I haven’t seen the first movie but now I want to.
Maggie says
What a big risk but it looks to have turned out well. I haven’t seen the first movie but I think I need to now. Thanks for sharing!
Maggie says
That was a huge risk you took but it seems it was necessary for you to grow. I never saw the first movie but I think I need to now. Thanks for sharing!
Tammi @ My Organized Chaos says
Wow, thats brave! Especially since you’d never been on your own either. I haven’t – went from parents to hubby and just the thought alone scares me, good for you!
Michelle F. says
Wow that was a really strong thing to do to leave and move so far. It was a great decision to be able to fully move on.
Lindsey @ Redhead Baby Mama says
I love the exotic floral theme on the posters. Marigolds are my brother’s favorite!
Amber Nelson says
Oh it is so good to see Dev’s face again. He is so talented!
Marya says
I’ve been pretty sheltered too. It takes a LOT of strength to pick up and move on your own!!
Megan Elford says
Wow, that’s a huge step! I can’t imagine doing it myself, but I’ll bet it stretched you in ways you had never considered. Sounds like a wonderful movie too — definitely not the typical, overdone rom-com!
Ricci says
I am your complete opposite…LOL! I have lived on my own for that past 12 years and am afraid I will never be able to live with someone. The thought of marriage scares me. Good for you moving off by yourself and making it work!!
Holly S. says
I didn’t know this was out! I loved the first one, so I’ll definitely see this one. Thanks for letting us know!
Caroline @ The Caro Diaries says
Wow! Thank you for sharing your story! We often get so comfortable and then when things change, we’re thrown! About six months ago, my boyfriend of 2 years and I broke up, and I was completely heartbroken.. but it took a few months for me to change my life and try something new: including a new hairstyle, meeting new people and doing things out of my comfort zone!
Amy Orvin says
I don’t know if I could leave everything and basically start a new life on my own. That would be so difficult to do. You are a very brave lady.
the pinterested parent says
I have never heard of this, but I love movies like this. I am going to look it up on Netflix.
Julie says
I haven’t seen the first one yet, but I heard great things about it. Guess now I need to make it a double feature!
Cassie says
I can’t imagine the bravery it took to just pick up and move like that. You really are an inspiration. Thanks for sharing your story 🙂
Star Traci says
Aww! that is so wonderful. You are very brave. I don’t know how I would do on my own. You inspire me.
XOXO
Traci
Ashley says
Love stories are great, but taking chances to HAVE that love story is even better! I’m very happy for you and I certainly hope to see this movie soon.
Virginia says
Thanks for sharing your story. This movie looks really good! I definitely want to see it!
Jeanine says
Wow! I wouldn’t be able to move like that. How amazing. If I ever got divorced I would be so lost. I went from being a 18yo single mom on my own, to living with my now hubby at 20, second baby at 21, married at 22 and then baby after baby… I just wouldn’t know. Good for you for figuring it all out! Amazing
Sarah Bailey says
I haven’t seen the first one yet – I really need to catch up and get watching.
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
I haven’t seen the first one either! I need to watch it soon!
Shauna says
I love second chance movies. They give us such hope, I guess… I can’t wait to see this movie 🙂
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
That was so brave of you to move like that, and by yourself. Even though it was scary, I bet it was an amazing experience!
Dawn says
I absolutely cannot wait to see The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. The first film was amazing, and I have nothing but high hopes for the second.
David Fultner says
I saw the first one it was great. I can not wait to see Maggie Smith this time.
Cindy (Vegetarian Mamma) says
I have never heard of this but it looks great. I love the quote to take a chance on things so matter what your age. Its true. You can find happiness at all time. 🙂
Terry says
Life is all about taking chances, and it looks like your chanceS have paid off well for you.
Shauna says
Moving far from home is never easy. I moved cross country six years ago and though I miss my home state it was a great move. Thanks so much for sharing. This sounds like it will be a great movie
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
I can’t wait to see this movie. I saw the first one, and I loved it. Plus, Richard Gere is one of my favorite actors.
Scott says
We did something similar and moved 2,000 miles away from the safety net of family when we moved to Los Angeles. Best decision we could have made, but at the time it was SO scary!
Jeannette says
This is fabulous advice! I also had to make a big move to escape the past and while I was getting remarried when I did it, it was a scary but liberating experience that I would not change.
Penelope says
Stories about love later on, and second chances at love, TOTALLY melt me!
Kelli A says
I never heard of this movie, but after watching the trailer it looks like something I would like. Wonder if it’s on netflix lol I’ll have to check it out!
Zoey McCluskey says
I think this looks really good! I so want to watch it now! Thanks for sharing!
christina moore says
I saw the first movie and I loved it, can not wait to see this one
Sherri says
I really admire you. I am not at all good about stepping out of my comfort zone. So many things could have been different (and better) if I had been open to taking a chance
Jeanna says
I’ve never heard of this movie, but after reading this review I want to! It sounds interesting!
Darlene Arnold says
Never heard of this movie. Sounds like it might be interesting tho. May look and see if I can find it.
Debbie L. says
I so want to see this movie – it looks really good. Great actors and actresses!
Jessica Harlow says
I loved the first movie. I was really surprised at how much I liked it? I thought it was about the older generation but there were so many aspects of it that resonated with me. I can’t wait to see the second one! I love Dev Patel!
Alli says
I’m a SC girl with a GA accent. 🙂 Yes, there is a difference. Loved hearing your story about finding love the 2nd time around. Good for you! I’ll have to check out both movies.
Nikki says
This sounds like a great movie about finding love at any age, any time! I can relate to your story, at almost 40 I’ve never lived alone yet.
Daphne Turner says
I watched the trailer and enjoyed it (have not seen the first movie). I still have a slight problem understanding the English of the star, sorry to say.
noelle d says
I really enjoyed the first one, so it will be good to see the next one 🙂
Didn’t know it was out yet, thanks for the heads up!
Lisa Brown says
such a great cast, so many british actors I am familiar with; great story line and looks so colorful.
Saidah @ ApronsAndStilletos.com says
You have an awesome story people need to hear. I’ve been seeing trailers for this movie, but didn’t know it was in theaters yet.
sharon martin says
I’ve seen the trailers for this and it really looks good. Glad you find your inner strength to move on, you were certainly brave.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says
Right! You’ve gotta take changes and do things that may seem hard at the time!
The movie sounds great and I do hope to see it one day! XOXO
shelly peterson says
This looks like a great movie. Thanks for sharing your great story.
Janet W. says
I can’t wait to see this movie! I’m in my 60’s, so having an older cast is something I can really relate to.
Jeff Taylor says
This sounds like a good movie. I’ll have to check the local showtimes. Thanks for the review/comments!
Michele says
I could definitely get into a movie like this. I have a strange feeling that I am that age and it would probably hit home a bit. Getting out of your comfort zone is hard at any age–but once you are older–well–in ways it is easier–in ways harder.
Cara (@StylishGeek) says
I want to see this movie! Judi Dench..Bill Night…and Dev Patel? I am a fan of all three! I love touching stories of second chance at love. I will definitely look out for this when it is shown. Thanks for sharing!
Penny Struebig says
What a great story! We saw this movie last weekend and loved it. I can understand it really hitting home in your situation. You are a brave person to move and start over!