This time of year you hear a lot about the 12 days of Christmas, we thought why not talk about the 12 unwritten rules of bowling.

12 makes more sense for bowlers than it does Christmas anyways. Considering that every bowler has the ultimate goal of bowling a perfect game, which as it turns out takes 12 strikes. Note to all those reading this, it's meant to be all in good fun and shouldn't be taken too seriously.

1. You are not allowed to slap out a strike after pointing for a crossover, when the ball then hits high flush in the pocket. If you do this please remove yourself from the alley.

2. White belts do not belong in the bowling alley. Keep it classy, black and brown are acceptable belt color options. Similarly shorts aren't for bowling either. Before you step out of the house wearing shorts, make sure you put on your bowling shoes, and look in the mirror. Take a look at yourself and we know you'll do the right thing. Also, it should go without saying no jean shorts or "jorts" as they're commonly known.

3. Begging is not only allowed, but encouraged. If you're not begging for your ball to hit the pins correctly you're doing it wrong.

4. When striking on a crossover we understand wanting to hide your face, but there is no need to be ashamed. As long as you're good natured about it's perfectly fine.

5. If you wave on more than two bowlers, you should receive a zero for the frame. Also, if it takes police dogs and a search team to find you when it's your turn to bowl, please don't join us at the alley.

6. We understand it stinks when there's a loud noise during your delivery, but don't blame that for your errant shot.

7. It is very acceptable to show emotion, be animated, and be entertaining while bowling. Personality is a wonderful thing. Being a bowling robot, is not.

8. When you're rolling it well, the breaks will follow. When you're not, be prepared for an endless supply of corner pins.

9. Respect your opponents. Whether you think your opponent is the worst duffer you've ever seen, Earl Anthony's ghost, or has crossed over on every single strike to win it doesn't matter. Each bowler has paid their dues and deserves respect. It’s easy to show good sportsmanship when things are going great. The true test of your personality is when things are going badly.

10. Cease and desist with the constant worries about what lane condition is being used, what’s it called, how it’s supposed to play, etc. Everybody has to compete on the same shot. Using the conditions on the lane is an excuse, and a poor one at that.

11. Don't worry about what another bowler is doing. If they are tugging it into the oil and striking incessantly or if they are throwing it 100 MPH down the lane, it doesn't matter and should not concern you. It's a waste of energy. Do you think Joey Chestnut is concerned what his competitor’s are doing during the hot dog eating contest? I think not. He’s only intent on inhaling hot dogs, and nothing deters him.

12. The final most important unwritten rule to follow, have fun! It’s easy to forget why you started bowling, which was because you enjoyed it and had a lot of fun doing it. If you bowl long enough you know there are good patches and bad patches. Remember the bad patches are never as bad as they feel and make sure you really enjoy when things are going well. Bowling can be cruel, but most of all it's fun!