I actually took my mom to a quilt retreat this year for her Christmas gift. It was our fourth one and has become a tradition. I think that is a great idea and probably not one she will be expecting!!
As for gadgets, does she have a sidewinder? That is a little machine that winds bobbins. I also love my large thread holder (a big metal dowel on a weight that sits behind the machine and holds the really big thread spools.) And, my mustache trimmer for tearing out seams. Those are some small, inexpensive items she would have to unwrap.
Good luck!! Merry Christmas!