Several hundred years, to say the very least. It gets difficult to keep track of the centuries when the world spins faster and livelier now than ever before the war.

[ she glances to sam every few moments, taking in her reactions to the city as much as her words, but smiles and greets the natives in passing just as much, even waving her hand to assist in setting up a booth or hanging some lights once in awhile. ]

As for the why, though? My husband would have a better answer for you, but I think perhaps the Mother simply wanted to see Her children.

[ this, she says with the utmost of motherly affection and pride. the closest to the mother's spirit, and frigg adores them all terribly. ]