I think I'd use crochet thread and tie it. Once at each corner and once in the middle of the block. Either that or just loosely stiple it. I don't think it's a monster, just someone using what they had available. Years ago most quilts were made that way. Perhaps you could put in the guest room or if you really don't like it, finish it, put it in the closet and then just take it out and put it on a bed when she visits. I'm sure she thought she was doing something nice for you. If you quilt it you might want to put a light weight stabilizer on the polyester pieces.
To be honest, I like it just fine but I wouldn't use the border.