I'm 22 and I spend my life at the pool in the summer. I get paid to go so I'm there, no matter if I want to be or not. I bought the best one piece (with an underwire bra so the girls are in a better place) and cute shorts to make me feel more comfortable. Go. you'll feel better about your life

Someone told me something once that i think makes a lot of sense. No one thinks about you nearly as much as you think they do. Really...because we're all thinking about ourselves.

I love to swim, but for years I was so embarrassed that I didn't fit into a swimsuit that I could afford (because the big ones are always three times the price) and I hated my body that I never went. Instead, I sat on the sidelines feeling and looking like crap, when I could have been enjoying myself. Now, I no longer care. I'm still very obese, but I could care less anymore. I put on my suit and swim. It is great exercise, it's fun and I love it!

I've already commented on this thread, but I wanted to come back and share a picture of me and my bestfriend that was taken at the beach a few years (and 45 pounds) ago. I wish it was larger, but I can't find the original, so a thumbnail has to do. This is what I stand next to every time me and my bestie go to the beach together...but it doesn't stop me. :)

http://c2.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/i...08937c0a1d.jpg

And honey, I'm way bigger than you. Get your butt to that pool...otherwise you're just gonna miss out and regret it!!!

Originally Posted by Natasha1534:

http://c2.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/i...08937c0a1d.jpg

Hey Natasha! ......Is that at Tybee???? It looks like Tybee!!!! (I'm from Savannah :D )

I just want to say... switching out from a bikini to a one-piece swimsuit was a wonderful experience for me! And I'm talking about when I was slim - 135. I found it totally liberating to wear a swimsuit, not having to worry about how I was sitting, lying, getting up, turning over or whatever. There are some great-looking suits out there - I'd never go back!

I'm a college student too, 5'0'' and 144 lbs. My bf wants to take me to a waterpark, but like you, I'm too self conscious even for the pool. It seems like everyone our age is fit and hot, so they love to go show off at the pool. I empathize with you, but you should have fun! Go to the pool and have a good time in a tankini or something. :sunny:

Originally Posted by Beach Patrol:
Hey Natasha! ......Is that at Tybee???? It looks like Tybee!!!! (I'm from Savannah :D )

Good eye!!! :) It sure is. ;) We're considering moving to Savannah after the end of the year...it's one of our favorite places in the world. Anytime we have visitors from out of state we schedule at least 1 day in Savannah.