I understand your affinity to linux. Believe me, I get it.
It's not a good idea for casual users. She is still hooked on WinXP. Does it sound like she's into a learning curve?
Fair 'nuff... I've just been impressed the ease with which my wife uses Linux, and she is *NOT* computer literate for the most part.
Of course, I did set up the system and put the icons in the toolbar, but in general once that was done I get basically no questions.