Great-Grandaddy Cypress

I am often asked about why the trees are central in Witch Grannie’s journey. Trees in real life offer a sense of wonder, quiet wisdom and protection. And so it is for Witch Grannie.

In the story, Witch Grannie actually begins her life journey when she flies out of a book dangling from the branch of Great-Grandaddy Cypress. He then wisely sends her on her way to a better life. Later in the story, the Ghost Tree offers Witch Grannie a small, brittle twig for protection, in the most action packed moment in the story.

The inspiration for these scenes have formed from immersing myself through the years in the Del Monte Forest in Pebble Beach, California. The wind-blown Monterey Cypress trees are majestic and magical.

Great-Grandaddy Cypress is an individual tree you can find on 17-Mile Drive in the Crocker Grove. This designated stop is currently listed as #11 on the 17-Mile Drive tour map.

The centuries old Great-Grandaddy Cypress tree is not labeled, but you can’t miss it! It has a hollowed out base from a previous fire, and low in its trunk are distinct knobs forming his face.

Crocker Grove is one of two native Monterey Cypress tree forests in the world. The other is at Point Lobos about 20 miles southwest, and worth a visit. The trails at Point Lobos are the perfect distance for kids and the views will inspire both parents and kids alike.

Ghost Tree is an historic tree also located in Pebble Beach. I will tell you more about the lore of Ghost Tree in another blog post.