My husband is turning the big 3-0 this May, right before Memorial Day actually. And like every year, we're having a big Memorial Day/birthday party. Except this year, the focus will be more on him.  And since we just moved into our new home, I've already start planning and preparing. His big birthday present (a surround sound bar to go in his man cave) has already been purchased, delivered, and hidden. Invitations have already been ordered and waiting for me to address them. I have commissioned a custom cake, and now I turn my focus onto our deck and backyard.

We have a beautiful backyard with lots of space for our four dogs to run and play and a huge deck. Our deck has built in benches along the perimeter. I just need a nice new gas grill (also an early birthday present), outdoor furniture, cushions for our furniture and benches, and fun accessories.

I'm kind of playing this whole thing low key. He knows he's getting a party, but I don't want him realizing what I'm really doing until it's all put together. I kind of want him to be surprised when he sees the deck all assembled.  So I'm really down playing everything. We did go shopping for outdoor furniture and cushions at several stores including big box retailers. And although I found the furniture set, I wasn't too impressed with the outdoor furniture cushion assortment available at any of the stores.  I have very particular taste. I want custom seat cushions that will go with just about anything since I like to switch things up every now and then.

So after looking and looking, I resorted to trying to find something on the Internet. And wouldn't you know it, I did find something. I came across this great site, customcushions.net that allowed you to literally create your custom seat cushions, bench cushions, and more.  And to be honest, I was a little skeptical, so I ordered the bench cushions first (in Dupione Deep Sea). They arrived a few weeks ago and I feel in love. The fabric was durable, the perfect color, and because I measured twice and cut once (well figuratively of course, but I did measure twice), the cushions were just the right size and shape.  Fine, my husband helped me measure.  So I ordered the rest of my outdoor furniture cushions. Since I went a little overboard with the furniture (had to ensure I had enough room for people to sit and eat, thus I bought two identical sets of outdoor furniture), I was able to mix it up with Dupoine Sand and Dash Crimson.

I'm sure everything will look great, since after all, I have great taste. Now to plan the actual menu and buy everything else I need. This is going to be the best birthday party he's ever had. I'm going to make sure of it.