Drive-by

I knew the Pope was coming to town, but I was surprised at how early the crowd formed to see him. This is a view at 8 a.m., across the street from my office, which is at 1700 Pennsylvania Ave. The crowds grew until noon. Everyone was extremely enthusiastic and loud; I could hear them up on the 11th floor. There were brass bands, mariachi bands, strolling priests with guitars, people singing and chanting and some loud demonstrators claiming that the Catholic church is evil. The line at the Starbucks bathroom was 50 deep.

We have conference rooms on the second floor overlooking the street. At noon, the Popemobile departed the White House and drove past our window. I was surprised at how small the Popemobile is and how fast the motorcade traveled--maybe 25 or 30 mph, not the stately parade pace I had imagined. Maybe they were rushing him off to have cupcakes and ice cream? Happy Birthday, Pope Benedict!