My fascination with cemeteries dates back to 1963 when, at my tender age of four, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. My family watched (on our black and white television) the lighting of the eternal flame.

One of my most humbling experiences was to stand at the grave of President Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery in 1976 during our nation's bicentennial.

Every American must make the journey to Arlington and to personally view this massive tribute to the American soldier in order to fully appreciate our service women and men.

When the common man dies it amazes me the amount of money some will spend, while others elect to have a simple grave. I like the basic three: a picture of the person, a small bible verse and a flower beside their name.

Cemeteries for me, need to show life with green grass, blooming flowers, blue skies and puffy white clouds.

In the background as I walk to find loved ones in your family, I will hear the sounds of life: birds, roosters, crows, chickens and the wind.

About my findagrave routines:

When I go on a cemetery site I always have: a cell phone, a bath rag, a really good hat & a small bottle of spring water.

I also have a long, steel mop handle to help me get down for the closer shots. It comes in handy to run off any critter I deem too close.

Remember, I always shoot findagrave requests only in spring and summer. NEVER when the cemetery looks drab and cold.

On my way out, I always call their name and tell them their family thought of them today and loves them. Cemeteries are not for the deceased...but indeed, for the living.

My fascination with cemeteries dates back to 1963 when, at my tender age of four, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. My family watched (on our black and white television) the lighting of the eternal flame.

One of my most humbling experiences was to stand at the grave of President Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery in 1976 during our nation's bicentennial.

Every American must make the journey to Arlington and to personally view this massive tribute to the American soldier in order to fully appreciate our service women and men.

When the common man dies it amazes me the amount of money some will spend, while others elect to have a simple grave. I like the basic three: a picture of the person, a small bible verse and a flower beside their name.

Cemeteries for me, need to show life with green grass, blooming flowers, blue skies and puffy white clouds.

In the background as I walk to find loved ones in your family, I will hear the sounds of life: birds, roosters, crows, chickens and the wind.

About my findagrave routines:

When I go on a cemetery site I always have: a cell phone, a bath rag, a really good hat & a small bottle of spring water.

I also have a long, steel mop handle to help me get down for the closer shots. It comes in handy to run off any critter I deem too close.

Remember, I always shoot findagrave requests only in spring and summer. NEVER when the cemetery looks drab and cold.

On my way out, I always call their name and tell them their family thought of them today and loves them. Cemeteries are not for the deceased...but indeed, for the living.