Oh dear - a classic case of buying someone the thing you want yourself perhaps?
Oh, hang on, he doesn't drive you say...
In that case I suspect it's a case of Useless Man Syndrome. Just like the set of posh body lotion and scent set I got one Christmas from a chap - obviously picked up in the 'for her' section of Debenhams, and not remotely 'me'... Satnav is the thing to have, so he thinks 'get one, it's bound to be a good idea...'
I don't think you're being ungrateful to be disappointed, but some people just don't have the knack. Does he often get it so wrong? If so, ask for the money in future... Sometimes, you do have to just grin and bear it (with grannies perhaps, or distant relatives who haven't seen you for years), but hubby really ought to try and get it right, or just let you buy the thing.
If you are in a position to afford it, just go out and buy a thing you want yourself, and 'give it' to yourself. Wrap it up even!
Still, it sounds like your kid has the right idea - an ability to listen to people. Nurture that... And in future you can develop a game - every Christmas and Birthday, have a guess each at what daft thing Dad will get...
And Happy Birthday!
:?: