Despite the federal government shutdown and a lighter-than-normal crowd at Pete’s Diner, the following signs of normalcy were observed on Pennsylvania Avenue SE this morning from 9:30 to 10 a.m.

1. White-haired woman smoking a cigarette outside Tune Inn
2. Nine people lined up inside Starbucks at Pennsylvania and 3rd
3. Homeless gentleman sipping coffee outside Hunan Dynasty
4. Marines in black tees and tank tops jogging on sidewalk
5. Seven men in dark suits drinking coffee in Le Bon Cafe on 2nd
6. Bored-looking group of tourists standing outside Rayburn House Office Building
7. Two guys in khakis, light blue shirts, brown belts, and charcoal blazers exiting Capitol South Metro at the same time

Photo by Darrow Montgomery