Habemus fumum negrum

Eight years ago, I was at the front row at St. Peter's Square whenever smoke came out from the world's most famous chimney. No exception tonight.

Crowds did not fill in until 5:30 pm. By six, the whole square was totally full.

Thanks to the cardinals that they voted tonight, as the ballot is optional. As expected, black smoke came out at 7:42 pm. (The picture is possible thanks to a camera that I decided to buy for use in this occasion only.)

I have been in the Vatican City State over 9 hours today. It looks like it will be another 10 hours for me there tomorrow. So long for the night, except for those of you who will have to wake up in the middle of the night to watch the holy smoke because of different time zones.