C.S.
Hi J. - would recommend being honest always. I am the 'OTHER' sister in my sister relationship.
Let her know that you had trouble getting it together and never really got it off the ground-could she help? If she is upset-explain you just kept thinking you could get to it and time slipped by-honest.
As for the toys, let her know to keep them simple and inexpensive. Her time coming over to visit is much more valuable than any toy. CAN SHE COME OVER for a visit?
My sister always tells me she never likes my gifts or the kids stripped the dolls or something. Pretty heart wrenching when I tried to pick out just that wonderful gift from me that could be remembered as from me and it was not wanted and being a single mom - it was even more difficult to do.
So I have learned to keep things simple - send gift cards or money and let them tell me what they bought. I learned I am not remembered by the toys- just the remembering them part on their days.
I love my sister and would never let anything so simple come between us - she is my only sister and I adore her - even if she is totally honest. :)
Hugs to you - slow down you - all or nothing is too hard and no fun!