The NeoPixel strand connects as follows:

• Red wire --> VOUT
• Middle wire --> A1
• Remaining Wire --> GND

Be sure you're connecting to the IN end of the strip. You can connect power (VOUT) and ground (GND) at either end, but the middle data connection MUST connect to the correct end of the strip. Check for an arrow on the back of the pixels to be sure you've got the right end. More about this in the assembly section! 

Power your lights with a USB cable via the USB port, or a battery pack connected to the JST port.