lab fairy,
You make some very good points. I had an awesome MIL and I miss her so much. I just connected with her and she spoiled me. I think she loved me more than most of the family. However, I understand that not all people are this lucky.
I think it is great to inscribe special books and gifts. I do not however see the point in marking all of the toys, clothes, etc... that children will outgrow. Are the kids supposed to keep everything and find a place to store it? I think this is expecting too much from MIL.