One of the realities of living in a winter city is when summer finally comes around, suddenly there is so much to do that it can be overwhelming.

On any particular weekend during the warmer weather there are any number of choices of festivals, community events, and seasonal parties and other such things. Plus, there is the added desire to spend time doing fun outdoor activities and just hanging out with family and friends.

Lately in Edmonton it seems that something is always going on, regardless of the season. Still, being able to actually do something outside seems like a privilege.

This resonates even more so this year, when almost daily the sun seems to suddenly vanish, the skies, grow dark, and then open up with rain and some spectacular thunderstorms. Or, it is so windy that a few strong gusts threaten to blow us away.

As the saying goes, Edmonton has two seasons: snow and rain. As the other saying goes, if you don’t like the weather, go inside for ten minutes – it will change.

No matter if it is a deep freeze, blazing heat, or heavy downpours we face, the quirks of Edmonton weather are a fact of life. If that means carrying an emergency rain poncho in our backpacks, as well as hand and toe warming packs, and a spare shirt or jacket – all at the same time – you probably have been living here for a while. Otherwise, live and learn – freeze and burn!