There is a general rule that weekly papers do not use headlines that are weather-related because the information may be inaccurate by the time the paper reaches its readers. For example, we would never use a headline that read, "Event Held Despite Frigid Temperatures" or "Summer Heat Causes 5K Run To Be Rescheduled." It is quite possible, especially in Pennsylvania, that the area is no longer experiencing summer heat or frigid temperatures.

In fact, residents of Pennsylvania may experience all four seasons in the same day! It is not uncommon in the transitional months like March and September to start the day off wearing shorts, T-shirts and flip-flops and, as the winds change, you end the day needing a coat, jeans and a sweater. On some days it is not uncommon to bundle up the kids for the school bus for the ride in, but when they come home, their coats and mittens are missing, most likely left at school.

I clearly remember attending a stock car race several years ago, which was just over the Pennsylvania state line in Maryland. The day began with warm temperatures, but by mid-day, we spectators were running to our cars to hopefully fetch jackets or sweatshirts that were stored there. By the end of the evening during the last race, light snow began to fall.

Personally, I love snow and the way it blankets the earth, making everything clean and beautiful. And, while my view may not be popular, I am not a fan of summer. Summer in Pennsylvania is when we hear those dreaded words "stifling humidity" and "oppressive heat." Last summer, the actual temperature reached 104 degrees at one point.

This opinion may also be unpopular, but I love the rain. I love lying in bed listening to the rain hit the roof. Add a good book, a mug of tea and my two dogs, and I consider the day perfect.

While Pennsylvania has four seasons, there are also "in-between" seasons like false spring. This is when there is a sudden snowstorm on Easter morning or when home gardeners lose their new plantings to frost.

Then there is always a time when summer won't let go. It often gets very hot during the first week of September when all the kids are back to school. In my lifetime, I have also seen snow on Halloween and a 70-degree Christmas Eve.

We are lucky, however, to live in a place where we can experience all the different seasons. This helps us to appreciate the extremes. Only when the heat and humidity have been stifling can we appreciate a cooling summer rainstorm. And, when the temperatures are freezing and below, we can really enjoy the warmth of the sun on our faces. The same is true after several days or weeks of intermittent rain; the sudden appearance of the sun can warm our hearts.

It is best to appreciate all types of weather and the best of each season. Fall is when the leaves on the trees sport vibrant colors like reds and golds. Winter may be cold, but it is also the time we gather with friends and family to celebrate the Christmas holiday. Spring is when the trees come to life, and flowers start to bloom. Even summer can be appreciated because it is a time to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables grown by local gardeners like watermelon and corn on the cob.

It is always a good idea to be prepared. If you have out-of-town guests coming to Pennsylvania for a visit this summer, tell them to pack the following items: T-shirts and shorts; a swimsuit; flip-flops; an umbrella and a rain slicker; and most importantly, a sweater, heavy jacket or coat. They may also want to check their car's heat and air conditioning because it is quite possible that both will be used on the same day.