"You're Pretty" "Shut up!"

I have an unusual problem. It's a problem most women can't fathom having, and may even wish that they had. I have a really, really hard time accepting compliments. When a man tells me I'm pretty or even dares to use the word "beautiful" (gag me!) I get all squirmy and uncomfortable and never know how to respond. It didn't take The Highlander very long to catch on to this, and as a result, it's been awhile since he's dropped any of these compliments on me.

The question is why? In order to get to the bottom of this, I consulted with Grayer to ask if she had the same problem. Grayer and I come from the same parents, and as everything is a result of how you were raised, I figured I'd start with her to see if she has the same problem. She said she does have a bit of the same problem, and we can only assume we have this problem for the same reason. We came up with a few theories.
1. We're not used to hearing it. I don't want to sound completely cocky, but I don't think this is the reason. I've been complimented enough by enough different people that this just isn't the case. Moving on...
2. Overconfidence. Grayer and I have more confidence than either of us have any right to have, and as we all know, this always goes directly back to a woman's father. And we have a ridiculously awesome dad who has always been supportive and thinks the world of us. Maybe we don't like compliments because we don't need them?
3. The I Hate Romance theory. Romance in general makes me uncomfortable. I don't like talking about where we are or where we're going, unless we're on a road trip. Could probably psycho-analyze that one too, come to think of it.

So what gives? Why can I not smile graciously and say thank you, while looking up from under adorably fluttering eyelashes? Help!