I would like to add another option to the pool question: I am secure- but I attract insecure men.
I'm young (23) and lately have noticed that the men I'm dating are all at LEAST 10 years my senior (one, more like 25!!!) They have all asked me out and we've had relationships where they tell me I'm beautiful and sexy, and make no issue of my 'curves' or body size. I'm 5'8 and a size 16/18. I'm athletic (a hammer and shot put thrower) and find that I seem to be more intimidating to men than vice versa.
The beginning of this thread almost offended me as a young, lovely, plus sized gal, since it made it sound like if you're over a size two, you can't be considered 'arm candy.' To the contrary! I have been paraded around as 'arm candy' on more than one occasion, and have never been 'criticized for my curves.'
Am I 'lucky' in love? Not yet, but I don't feel that it is the fault of my size--there wil always be men who find a large and lovely lady attractive. For me, it is a personal thing, that has to do with being young and committment-phobic!
Ladies, just say to yourself: "Any man who's with me, is lucky to be with ME!"
This little 'thought' helps me with body confidence: No matter what your size, or body type, if you're the only women naked in the room with your guy, you can bet that he's counting his lucky stars that he's with you and able to be 'getting naked' with you!... I like to think of it like this--I'm the star-sexpot that is his fantasy personified, at that moment...'cause quite frankly, I'm the only one who's there!
-Happy V-Day!!