So, let's talk about competitive sports. I usually avoid them as does my kids' school. But then, as part of this family adventure, we all go bowling. You have to start with the fact that the kids have bumpers up on their lanes. There is no skill involved. You think they would realize this and just play for fun or the joy of bonking things over. Or, even if they think somehow they have some control, they could realize they only play once a year, they aren't any good, and just enjoy bonking things over every once in awhile.

But, no. Once Rose realizes she is not winning, she starts to pout. She gets very put out and complains that she's in last place. When I explain, I am, in fact, in last place. She modifies that to last place for the kids or second to last place or whatever. If she isn't number one, it's no fun.

I find this attitude very annoying. Sure, winning is fun and losing, like when I bowled a double gutter for my first frame, can be demoralizing, but there's no where to go but up after that! I really don't care if I win or lose. Every time I throw the ball I try to do my best, and if I screw up, I laugh at myself and prep for next time. I also set my goal really low--I'm hoping for a 70, so when I pull an 89 with some marks in there, I'm quite pleased.

I would like Rose to have a better attitude. I would like to teach her how to have a better attitude, but lecturing her when she's miserable doesn't seem to be working. I'm wondering if doing more competitive sports and getting used to losing, even when you have tried your hardest, might be a solution. But, she's already refused to join a swim team because she doesn't want to race. I doubt I'd make much progress convincing her to take up softball or soccer. And I seriously don't want to drive her and stand on the sidelines in the rain. Suggestions?