Watch This — The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl

It almost hurts to admit it: I watch "Single Ladies."

There. Ripped that Band-Aid right on off. I feel liberated...but no less dirty.

Now, I don't watch it to the point where I know all the characters' names by heart, nor do I even have the programming info memorized. But if it's on (and it's, seemingly, always on), I'll watch it.

I'm shamefaced about this because — for those of you who can honestly say they've never seen it — it is horrendous. It's like a black "Sex and the City" set in some R&B music video fantasy depiction of Atlanta. There is zero acting ability involved, with emphasis placed, instead, on a.) how well (outgoing) star Stacey Dash is preserving herself and, b.) how short and tight a dress can possibly be before it's considered a tank top.

And, sadly, "Single Ladies" is one of the few predominately black ensemble cast shows on scripted TV anymore. It makes me long for "A Different World," or even "Moesha."

I'm not saying it's "set the race back" bad, but it certainly isn't charting any new, or needed territory. All the same, it's proving to be ratings gold for VH1. Meanwhile, innovator Issa Rae has to resort to Kickstarter pan-handling to fund her series of webisodes, "The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl."

Full disclosure: It took me a few episodes to get into "ABG," but by the end of Ep 4, I was all in. I'm even anxiously awaiting the latest installment (promised for next Thursday, Sept. 8). I could explain it all, but it's best to just watch the series for yourself. Here's the first episode...

Wantables, The Birthday Edition — Yoóbu Bags

Parasol tote by outofafrika, $90.

Around this time of year, I start crafting birthday wish lists (much like when I was 16). Who's going to use them to advise their purchases? No one (much like when I was 16).

Wishful thinking, or no, these handcrafted Yoóbu bags by outofafrika (found via Fly) are certainly on this year's list.

Mustard wristlet, $48.

The wristlets seem like perfect pop-of-color accessories to add to otherwise basic outfits. But my "carry nothing beside ID, ATM card, keys and lip gloss" days are long behind me. As such, the big shoulder bags and totes speak to my pack mule/Mom reality.

Kaleidoscope bag, $105.

The Denise Huxtable in me thoroughly approves!

So, if any of you readers want to pool your resources and get on my VERY good side, y'all now know what's up!