omg, pbc, whenever i read things about your mil, i have to laugh b/c i totally understand your pain. i have to give you FULL CREDIT for living with her (my chinese mil is 7 minutes away). i totally GET the rummaging, nosy, questioning need-to-know, "advice" (criticizing) nature...but i admit, they are nice in other ways like cooking for us, etc...
i wouldn't be comfortable letting anyone borrow my h bags. chanel, yes. hermes, no.
WAIT!!!!!!!! PBC, are you living with her or she is visiting?????????????????