A tree and bench in memory of Mike

Dear friends, 

Our church is currently undergoing a huge landscape renovation on their property and we have the opportunity to purchase a tree and/or bench in honor or memory of someone.  When Jack, Carly, and Colin heard this they immediately said "Can we get a tree for Daddy?" to which I couldn't say no.  Then when I saw the prices of the trees I realized I could only afford the cheapest one, a Norway Spruce....which was fine by me until I saw a picture of that tree.  It is a standard, "run of the mill" type of evergreen.  Definitely not one to adequately represent Mike and who he was.  When the kids saw the pictures of the different trees to purchase they immediately wanted the top of the line Kousa Dogwood...  A fully grown, magnificent tree with beautiful flowers adorning the branches.  In addition they also wanted a bench to sit on underneath this tree!  I suddenly got caught up in the image of them being able to come to this peaceful place for many years to come and just sit on "their" bench beneath this amazing tree with their Dad's name proudly displayed on it.  Then when I came back to reality and realized how much this would all cost, my first response was "Sorry, we can't we do it."  However, when talking it over with a friend I realized that this is not an opportunity that will likely present itself again and I would hate to miss out on our chance to honor Mike in this way.  I also realized that the only way to possibly give this gift to my children would have to be a collaborative effort.  I am not good at asking for help (and particularly anything that involves money!) but I thought it was at least worth a try to put this out there to you all.  If we raise $6500. we can get the Kousa Dogwood and the bench.  On the other hand, if we don't reach our goal we could at least put the money raised towards a more memorable tree than the Norway Spruce!! Google that tree and you'll understand what I mean.  

Whatever tree we purchase our incription will read: 
"In memory of Michael O'Shea.  Forever in our hearts."  

Thank you for anything you can give.
With much love, 
Tina, Jack, Carly & Colin