Update from OPOK, the new computer is up and running. Thankfully with the backup it was easy to get files, emails, favorites and other configuration data back. I then started messing around with it assuming I would get her to ignore the new Start Screen and use the familiar Desktop.
However, after getting used to it, I decided to do just the opposite. I removed all shortcuts from the traditional Desktop and started populating the Start Screen with what she normally uses. Realizing that there are some nice apps that run in the new "Metro" interface, I installed some of those (like for weather and Netflix) and showed her how they worked.
Having never used Win8, I am actually pretty impressed with it and even she agrees it is more pleasant looking and maybe more fun to use. We'll see after she gets some time working with it.
Here is a screenshot of how I configured the Start Screen so far. I'll fine-tune it as she lets me know what she likes or doesn't like. I can understand why some don't like it at first, but after just one day with it, I think if you figure out how to configure it to do what YOU want, it's actually nice.
link to larger image
