I just recently got the book Crazy for Scraps. It has some really cute scrap quilt patterns, ideas, tips for sorting and organizing scraps etc. I got it from connecting threads. Maybe it can offer some inspiration for your scraps. Also having them all mix matched up in 3 bins may make them seem overwhelming and daunting. Like mad quilter suggested, maybe take some time to just sort them by color or maybe by dark medium light. I use zip loc bags to try and keep them under control. I also cut into strips for a scrappy log cabin that has been a WIP bordering on UFO for years. Here is a link to the book.
http://www.connectingthreads.com/boo...s__D45069.html
I don't know how bad your MIL is but maybe sorting a pile of scraps by color might be something she can do with you?