It happens more often than you’d think.

A client recently asked me to check on his family’s gravestone in Pine Grove Cemetery in Grafton, NH. He hadn’t visited in a few years and wasn’t sure if it needed cleaning. I hadn’t seen the stone myself in about two years and remembered it looking fine back then.

But when I arrived, I was genuinely surprised.

In just that short amount of time, the granite had developed noticeable staining and lichen—signs of quiet neglect that had crept in like an uninvited guest. What once looked well cared for had started to lose its dignity, the story behind the stone slowly being smudged away by time and the weather.

After a gentle, respectful cleaning (with a well-earned Veterans Discount), the stone looked like itself again—clean, calm, and standing proud. The photos I took four days later show the difference a little care can make. Honestly, it looked like it had been waiting for someone to notice.

Why does this matter?

Gravestones are exposed to New England’s harshest elements—snow, rain, sun, humidity—and even just a couple of years can leave a lasting mark. What looks “okay” from memory can quietly become a shadow of itself.

That’s where Sacred Stones comes in.

Whether it’s been 2 years or 20, I treat each stone as a story worth preserving. If it’s been a while since you visited your loved one’s grave, consider making a trip. (Grandma’s probably wondering why you don’t bring her flowers anymore.)

Need a hand? I’m here.

If you do visit and realize the stone isn’t looking the way you remembered—I’m happy to help. I bring years of experience, a soft touch, and a whole lot of respect for the lives these stones represent.

I’m not a big company. It’s just me—someone who believes that care, kindness, and a little elbow grease can bring honor back to neglected places.

Fill out the contact form, send an email to Cindy@SacredStonesNH.com or call 603.217.7452

Let’s restore a little dignity, one stone at a time.