20 Questions with Ryka

Quite by nature but never shy. Open-minded, friendly, humble and innately artistic are all attributes that describe Ryka, a petite EarthSista with an upbeat edge. Because she is coy and gracious, it can take a moment for her to share but its worth the wait. Self-driven and adventurous, Ryka’s love of writing and painting along with fashion design and photography are aspects that indicate that she marches to the beat of her own drum. Surrounded by a positive and loving family environment, she was nurtured to be an independent go-getter who is not afraid to be caring and loving. Ryka is also a nurturing mother raising a bright young son to be a wise king.

Coy, yet open; deep, yet straightforward; real, yet artistic. Always gracious and optimistic. Ryka is that bright, dimpled smile that makes you smile as well.

1. What color would you pick to describe your personality? Why?
   Silver, because I can be dark and mysterious or shiny and bright.
2. How would you describe your style? You feel most comfortable dressed in what?
   My style of dress is flashy, eye-catching, colorful, girlie, and tight. I feel most comfortable dressed in a pair of boy shorts and a tank top if I have to be clothed. Otherwise, I love just being in my own skin.
3. Where are you from originally?
   Oakland, California. Always and forever a Cali girl at heart.
4. Single or committed? EarthSista or EarthMother?
   I’m committed to my wonderful, loving Husband and best friend. Also, I’m a committed EarthMother to my very energetic, handsome 2 year old son. I love them both with all my heart and soul.
5. Large or small family? And how did that affect you?
   I grew up with a small family. Just me, my mom, and 2 younger brothers. Growing up in a small family helps you have an everlasting bond that nothing or anybody can break. I want the same in my own family.
6. Who/what has been a major influence in your life to this point?
   My mother has been a major influence, she taught me what it was meant to be a strong black woman, a strong mother, and also how to continue to move forward with life even after tragedy.
7. Name 5 artists that you’d have on your IPOD?
   Pink, Lady GaGa, The Dream, Gucci Mane, and Trey Songz.
8. What are your hobbies/interest?
   Clothing design, crocheting, writing, listening to music, and coming up with creative ways to teach my son new things.
9. Aside from work, what activities consume most of your time?
   My son, always chasing behind him, unless he’s sleep then I’m cleaning.
10. What’s your dream job?
    A hairstylist/make-up artist/fashion designer/nail designer/barber/mechanic.
11. Complete this sentence: “As a woman, I believe it is especially important to…”
    respect and love yourself if it you expect that from others and always keep your head up.
12. What turns you on?
    beautiful smile, confidence, nice male body, intelligence, glasses, wine with peach slices, and ice cream.
13. What pisses you off?
    Ignorance, stupid comments, lying, cheating, stealing, false accusations, bad parenting, people who use drugs, uncleanliness, and perverts.
14. Words to live by?
    Live, Laugh, Learn. Love, Sex, Money. The Heart wants what the Heart wants, it doesn’t hurt to listen.
15. What’s your sign?
    Cancer, yes I’m very sensitive and emotional blah blah blah lol.
16. Favorite TV show or Movie.
    TV shows: Bones, Army Wives, Law & Order: SVU. Movies: Labyrinth, Gremlins, All Disney movies.
17. Complete this sentence: “Nothing is better than…”
    chicken nuggets and fries with a mixture of barbecue sauce and ranch dressing. Spending a nice beautiful day at the park with my son and husband. The smile on my son’s face, his laugh, and his hugs & kisses.
18. Your greatest moment?
    I have two: 1) My high school graduation, I was Senior class VP and read an inspirational poem. 2) The night my son was born.
19. Tomboy or Girlie girl?
    I’m a girlie girl but I do have tomboy qualities. I’m not too cute to get dirty or enjoy sweaty activities, nor am I scared of bugs….well a few still creep me out.
20. One thing you want to do before you die?
    Travel to different countries around the world.