Could you ask your mother in law about her doll memories?

Can you start to break the ice a little, by alluding to this hobby in a phone call or email that you may make this week primarily for trip details?

Could you tell them that you make photo stories about dolls and tell them that you may be making some while you're there, since their location seems so perfect?

Could you ask them if they would like to see some that you've made before?

I'm just thinking that any mention that you can make ahead of time may help to prepare the way for you, so that it's not so awkward when you finally get there with your doll in hand.

Best wishes!
Joy