Video Memories
We found this gem on Annika's phone. It really sums up who she is, and how she lived her life.
She really was singing before she was talking.
We heard nothing but this song for about 3 years straight. Even when she declared she was done with Disney Princesses - Anna and Elsa were the exception.
Annika started serving on the Kids' City Worship Team at church when she was in elementary school. She loved leading the kids, she loved the Kids' City Arts Team, and this was her favorite of all the Kids' City songs.
She was fierce! I was so surprised when my little princess / theater kid said she wanted to join wrestling - but like everything she did, she put her whole heart into it.
For her final children's theater production before high school, she was cast as Trunchbull in Matilda Jr. She absolutely CRUSHED it.
The choir is where she spent most of her time - came alive, developed her talent, and met most of her best friends. She was part of a featured duet in this performance, harmonizing beautifully.
Anyone who has seen the Madrigals for any of the past 3 years will recognize this. Watch it all the way through - five golden rings will never be the same!
Baby's first showtune?
Her first solo - at the 5th grade talent show. Her accompaniment track wouldn't work, but that didn't stop her - she sang the whole thing a capella. No fear. The show must go on.
She really thrived up there, leading the kiddos!
Fastest match I've ever seen!
Her first high school musical was...Matilda. She got the part of Bruce, and she crushed that too!
This is one of my favorite songs that this group did every year - they sound wonderful, and you can hear Annika's powerful voice in the group.
Silent Night is the traditional closing song for Madrigals. Every year, two soloists are chosen to sing a verse in another language. Annika chose Swedish - she was so proud of her Swedish heritage (with a name like Annika Lundgren, you almost have to be).
This song is usually an emotional one at Madrigals. It talks about moving on and leaving one another. The seniors step forward mid-song as it has special meaning for those who have spent so much time together and will be graduating and moving on soon.
This is the song we asked the choir (and alumni) to sing at her service. It was a different goodbye than anyone anticipated, but still a beautiful tribute to a life well-lived, and well-loved.
Toby decided that she was going to be my friend, and she was. She decided that her friends were going to be my friends, and they were. Toby always made sure that everyone felt included and seen.
I am a girl scout and was advertising cookie sales - Annika immediately wanted some and was so happy. She texted me that she was going to give me a big kiss. Forever missing her silliness.
During wrestling practice, someone told her she couldn't step on the mat because she was wearing shoes and she yelled "SHUT UP I HAVE CANCER!" which absolutely baffled everyone.
Brought the light and joy each time she came on the mat as a wrestler or supporter.
My favorite memory with Toby was when we walked around Wesmere because I was in my shoulder sling. It was so much fun being with her and laughing, then we went to my house for spongebob popsicles. We even wore the same outfit that day. At the end of the night, me and my friends walked her home and her parents invited us for spaghetti. I'll miss you Toby, you are a beam of light.
Most of my time with Toby was spent on the mat. Not only did she try her best every day, but also encouraged others to do the same. I know I wrestle hard, but Toby tried when the others were afraid. She treated me like a human and I'll forever be grateful.
Playing chess at Oberweis. I let her win because she didn't even know how to play at the time - she was way more focused on the ice cream cone!
You were the best, I'll forever love you.
You will ever be the greatest leader who holds both a quiet stillness and a force to be reckoned with. There will never be another! In your honor, we will continue the gift that you shared on the stage. All my love sweet girl.
Beautiful creative angel Annika.