I've always thought it funny about the mantle thing. In fact in lighter moments when Gma was still with us, we used to joke about putting her up there like some decoration or something.
It gave me great comfort when she was on back on our mantle for the holidays. Miss that woman, was always in good spirits. I'll never forget when she called herself an Ol' hag.
Ha! Sounds like one heck of a fun lady. I hope I'm fun when I'm an old geezer.