DEAR ABBY: I have a teenage grandson with an upcoming birthday. For several years we have taken him to a major sporting event for his birthday. I get complimentary tickets for this from work.
Last year he noticed that the tickets were complimentary and acted very disappointed. We had spent more than $50 on refreshments and souvenirs. Should we take him to the game again this year, or opt for something else? -- CAN'T WIN FOR LOSING IN WICHITA
DEAR CAN'T WIN: Your grandson's reaction was disappointing. He should have been grateful to have been invited to share the experience. It would have been best to discuss his reaction at the time it happened.
Before making up your mind about what to do this year, ask him why he acted the way he did. Feel free to tell him it hurt your feelings. If it turns out he was looking a gift horse in the mouth, make plans to do something else for his birthday this year, at your discretion. Shame on him.