Why can't the kids go with you? And maybe the breeder would meet you half way or something.
It sounds like she's trying be passive aggressive just to control you. It's none of her beeswax what you spend your money on! From now on tell you prefer not to talk about your finances with her. I had to do that with my MIL many years ago because she was always asking questions about how much we made or spent. (She wasn't trying to be mean or anything. Just nosy!)
I hate to see the evil MIL win this one!
Want me to talk to her for ya?
Edited to add: There are lots of YTers in Ohio. Maybe you can put out a plea for a babysitter on here. Or you might have better luck if you ask someone to pick up the baby for you. I KNOW lots of us would do almost anything to play with a puppy for a few hours!!