IMHO trying to get the finishing sashes completed may be very difficult for her. It takes some doing to get these to come out straight and even.
How about applique blocks? Raw edge is fun, and she can sew a straight line around the edges or use the machine for a blanket stitch.
You could cut out the pieces together and fuse them, she could stitch them down when you are gone. You could help her sew the blocks together. :D:D:D