"Don't forget to feed it or it will eat you!" That one is always good!! My mother wasn't surprised at all... my brother was stoked because his wife won't allow snakes in her house, but he can always come hang out with mine...my father is afraid of snakes (even the little garters in his Massachusetts yard)...
Co-workers and friends often seem to have a fascinated from afar type of reaction. They want to see pics and stuff, but still think it's a bit weird.
Your grandma's comment was the best though, priceless!! I have to disagree though, sorry Grandma. I think a woman who keeps snakes is a keeper!