valve train noise (clatter)

I have noticed a substantial amount of valve train noise with my 2000 GLS when the engine is cold? Is this normal as the car gets more mileage, or something I should have checked?

2.0 engine? What weight & brand oil are you using?

Yes, 2.0 engine. I have 10-30 Quaker State in it currently.

Some have had better luck with the synthetics. I personally don't like them in an older engine due to excessive leakage. I don't like any Quake State product & would start with a different oil next service. Does it only make the noise when cold & hoe cold is it getting up there?

It makes the noise until it gets into the normal range, the temperature is only about 35 degrees at the coldest, we dip into the 20s very seldom.