Pinch of Lyss

Favorite Friday: The 5207.5

2014-03-28T14:28:00.001-04:00

What is more frustrating than a bad hair day?

Nothing. I promise you nothing.

Especially here in Pittsburgh, the rainy days of spring bring on a huge, frizzy mess of hair. I constantly struggle trying to make my hair look beautiful and straight and shiny, then it fails.

My go to fix? A beanie.

I have never been a huge hat person. Honestly in high school I would always make fun of this one kid who wore a newsboy cap to class. But really, who even wears newsboy caps anymore? Anyhow, I find such beauty in a classic beanie. It is simple, versatile and depending on the style can add a pop of color to any outfit. You can look like a scene kid or rock your J.Crew necklace and oxfords. The possibilities are endless.

My favorite beanie to look to? Krochet Kids International’s 5207.5 beanie. This classic style is the perfect amount of slouch and fit, giving you that hipster vibe you have always wanted. Plus the hat is actually named after a beach house in case you have wanderlust for the west coast.

The best part of all? Your purchase of this and other products from Krochet Kids helps to empower women in Uganda by giving her work, thus giving her a way to provide for her family as well as personal and economic growth.

What is better than fixing your bad hair day, channeling your inner hipster and helping empower Ugandan women? Nothing.

Check out the 5207.5 here as well as www.krochetkids.org for more information.

Krochet Kids Photoshoot

2014-03-16T16:40:00.004-04:00

Spontaneous photo shoots and gear that helps empower women? What more could you ask for.

The other day the weather was beautiful here in Grove City, leading to essentially all of campus skipping class to be outside. I was talking to my freshman friend about Krochet Kids International and found a bunch of my sorority sisters heading to a local coffee shop. One thing led to another and here we are with an impromptu photo shoot.

Krochet Kids International sells bags, crocheted products and clothing all made by women in Northern Uganda and Peru. They provide a job, but also empower them. By providing educational as well as mentoring, these women are able to go and encourage economic growth as well as live more fruitful lives. They are able to provide for their families and bring food to the dinner table. The impact of Krochet Kids in these communities truly is incredible.

Another aspect of Krochet Kids I am impressed with is their mission model. Their mission is so heavily rooted in helping people, but not reaching out to simply "help poor people". Their final statement in their mission is that "we believe actions rooted in love bring lasting and powerful change. Our model for love is that of Jesus". A company rooted in love is something we should all strive for in our workplaces. Frankly, our lives.

Some of the products you see on myself and Ashley are the LOVE Africa Tee, A knit headband (similar 1, 2) and a classic hoodie sweatshirt (similar 1, 2).

Check it out, change a life.

Seasons of Change

2014-03-14T14:48:00.004-04:00

Get ready, this is one of those bearing your soul types of posts.

As the sun is finally beginning to shine and winter fades, I have been extremely contemplative of seasons. However, not just seasons, but seasons of life.

The amount of seasons a person goes through in life is mind blowing. Truly, I look at my life as a 20 something and have been blown away by the waves of my life.

The coming of spring is slowly but surely revealing itself to be an overarching metaphor of my current life. Coming out of a huge season of trial filled with heartbreak, defeat and anger, I am finally feeling the hope Christ has gave us. For so long I was so angry. So burdened by this weight of anger towards everything. It clearly directly affected my relationship with friends, my happiness and my relationship with Christ.

I just came off my yearly missions trip to Tucson, Arizona and cannot explain how hopeful I am. I am not sure if it is the people there or the way the sun shined, but God so clearly worked in giving me a wake up call.

I need to get myself together.

There is a season for trial and a season for pain, but that season is not life defining. It is now time to seek joy. Wholeheartedly seek the peace of Christ that I have been praying for this whole semester.

One of my biggest struggles throughout this whole period of trial is my confusion with God's plan and the direction he has for me. Not just my future life, but my immediate life. For weeks I just cried at the series of changes thrown into my life.

Do I know what I am doing with my life? No.

Do I know what I am doing with my summer? No.

Do I know what I am doing with my major? No.

Do I know who will be my community once I graduate? No.

Do I even know what I am doing tomorrow? No.

But guess what.

THAT IS OK.

Our society tells us we have to have everything figured out. We so often think that if we cannot control our life, then we fail. Yet, God is the one who is ultimately in control. He has an overarching plan that if I try to control, I mess up.

I am now seeking joy over anger. Seeking peace of worry. Seeking Christ over this world.

I am pretty pumped I am on to a new season. It feels good.

Favorite Friday: Winter Boots

2014-01-31T12:19:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone!

I am happy to say Pinch of Lyss is back up and running. I am so glad I took that time off from blogging for a bit to really recollect myself and my thoughts. Do not get me wrong, I am still persevering through a lot of confusing trials right now, but I am able to function and focus. Thank you everyone for your wonderful prayers! I appreciate all of you more than you know. Continue to pray for me for clarity, peace and most of all for God to reveal his plan. I am at a huge crossroads with many things in my life and need direction. Thankful for the little things.

Now that we got that tangent out of the way, can we just talk about how Pennsylvania has been abnormally cold? I am not used to this weather at all. Literally I ask myself everyday, "Why is my college not in California? Why?". So in my efforts to keep my weakness to the cold in check, I have been obsessed with winter footwear. Here are a few of my favorite finds for winter shoes!

1 2 3

1. Sperry Topsider for J.Crew

These boots are fabulous! Truly such a great alternative if you are not feeling like going with a classic L.L. Bean Boot. They provide warmth, are waterproof but also have a bunch of really great color and fabric combinations that can make any outfit pop.

2. L.L.Bean Boots

I love L.L. Bean boots. They are classic, go well with everything and are extremely durable. I have had the same pair of shear ling lined Brown Leather boots since high school and they still remain fabulous and classic.

3. Sorel Boots

Sorel Boots, like L.L. Bean, are great for durability. They can have both a hipster indie feel, or even tie along with a preppy outfit. I love that with their boots they have so much versatility. Plus that fur. All I want to do is sing "Apple Bottom Jeans" when I look at them.

4 5 6

4. Ankle Lace-ups
These shoes are a mystery to me. I actually have this exact pair from G.H. Bass and I cannot find them online anywhere. However, these boots are one of my staples in my closet. I pair them with dresses and socks, skinny jeans and leggings. I love that they are a great transition boot from both fall to winter as well as winter to spring.

5. Suede Wedges
I cannot explain how badly I want a pair of these boots. They are so versatile, comfortable and the perfect heel for winter events. I love that they can easily transition from work to evening and that they look so fresh yet classic.

6. Motorcycle Boots
These boots also are a mystery as far as the link goes. However the style is incredible. They remind me of Timberlands, but without the thug life atmosphere.

Keep it real, keep it warm.

Hiatus

2014-01-07T14:08:00.004-05:00

Hey friends.

So the past couple days have been pretty rough. Actually some of the roughest trials I have faced in a while.

Just letting you all know I am taking a short hiatus from blogging to get myself together. I would so much rather do that over lying and pretending everything is ok.

Here is some encouragement to you all for the week!

"Even youth will become weak and tired and young men will fall into exhaustion. But those who trust The Lord will find new strength" Isaiah 40:30

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” - Psalm 147:3

“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” - Revelation 21:4

"Above all else, guard your heart. For everything you do flows from it" - Proverbs 4:23

Weekly Wishes #2

2014-01-06T11:56:00.001-05:00

It is Monday, I am up before 11, in class and in desperate need of Coffee.

Guess it is time for this weeks Weekly Wishes!

1. Get an A in intersession

I am currently back on my college campus for a program called intersession. With this, I am taking a 3 credit class in two weeks before the rest of campus comes back for the regular semester of classes. My class is Finite Math. Not necessarily hard, however not my favorite subject by far. I wish I could tell you all my motivation to succeed in my grades is high. Well it is not. However, 2014 is the year to change that.

2. Make blogging friends

In my constant quest to become a better blogger, I have been seeking friends. One of my favorite things about blogging is the community that comes from it. I want to not seek mere page comments, but develop real relationships with my readers as well as blogs I frequent.

3. Get all of my sorority projects completed

With the start of the semester comes the wonderful joy of taking new girls. New members to not just my sorority, but every sorority on campus, brings a new sense of joy and fun to the semester. I am so excited to see these new girls form friendships that will last a lifetime and contribute to something bigger then themselves. However, with new girls comes more posters/gifts/crafts than I can count. I need to just buckle down and get them done.

4. Apply to Internships

My goal for the summer is to get an internship. With being a Communications major, internships are crucial to success in finding a job. I want to put gaining an internship at the top of my priority list!

What are your weekly wishes for the week? Join the link up!

Alyssa

Etsy Shop Launch

2014-01-05T13:00:00.000-05:00

Normally I do not post on Sundays (sticking with that sabbath rule even in the blogging world), but this announcement is an exception. Guess I can check one thing off the New Years Resolution List.

I am proud to say that the Pinch of Lyss Etsy shop is open!

In my shop I am specializing in hand poured scented soy wax candles, hand knitted products, as well as hand thrown stoneware and porcelain pottery. I decided to open by selling some of my teacup candles and will be working to add products within the next few months.

I am not one to boast, but I am truly so proud of myself. Proud that I did not allow my perfectionist/type A personality get in the way of starting this shop. I am proud to be starting off small and slowly growing.

It is ok to be proud.

Get excited for more products to come your way!

Alyssa

Favorite Friday: Hair Care

2014-01-03T21:55:00.000-05:00

note: this post is not a paid sponsor post. all products are chosen by me.

It is Favorite Friday! This week I will be talking about one of my go to topics: Haircare.

More than makeup, more than clothes, I love hair care. My hair is truly the one thing I spend a lot of time on in the morning. I am all about researching and figuring out what the best products are. I will admit, I spend a lot of money on my hair. However, I spend it in the right places and save where I can.

Here are my 8 favorite hair care products!

1. Redken Shampoo and Conditioner

This shampoo/conditioner combo is great. I use it every 2-3 days and it leaves my hair feeling clean and preserves my color extremely well. One thing many people do not realize about shampoo/conditioner is that it needs to be pH balanced in order for your color to be maintained. There is a whole list of ph balanced benefits as well. Definitely research the shampoo you use to make sure it is best for your hair!

2. Its a Ten Leave in product

This spray has 10 incredible benefits for your hair. I use it to prevent split ends and protect my hair from heat damage. Spray about 5-10 sprays when you get out of the shower.

3. Remington 1 1/2 Curling Wand

I use a curling wand to give my hair some nice waves as well as more flexibility then a curling iron. In my opinion, the Remington 1 1/2 is the best low price wand out there right now.

4. Redken Deep Conditioner

Use a deep conditioner about once per week. I prefer to allow my hair to rest in it in a shower cap for 20 minutes. It does wonders for damage. I prefer Redken, but you know my love of Redken products.

5. Chi Straightener

My go to straightener. For some reason I cannot seem to blow dry my hair the right way, so I let my hair air dry and quickly run a straightener through the kinks.

6. Multivitamin

Now I know many of you are wondering, why did I put multivitamins under hair care? Well keeping yourself healthy is one of the best things you can do for your hair. Especially look for a multivitamin with a little bit of biotin. However do not buy biotin pills. Taking too much can do more harm then good.

7. Wide tooth comb

Never, and I mean never brush your hair right when you get out of the shower. A brush will pull and snag your hair and cause breakage. Use a wide tooth comb to de-tangle wet hair.

8. Biosilk leave in conditioner

I love this leave in conditioner. It is somewhat like oil and great to add to rough ends. I love to run this in my hair when it is wet as well as after straightening to restore some shine.

What are your favorite hair products? Any tips for great hair care?

Alyssa

Rolo Stuffed Snickerdoodles

2014-01-02T20:15:00.001-05:00

It is another lazy recipe day! It is super snowy out here in PA, so no great adventures today. Sad sad.

Do not fear though, domestic Alyssa is here. I baked a great recipe today featuring all of our favorites. Caramel, cinnamon, chocolate and cookies.

Welcome in the Rolo Stuffed Snickerdoodle.

I altered this recipe a little from my favorite, Sally's Baking Addiction. Here is the recipe. Just replace the caramel with the rolo! It is such a great combination, and this recipe (unlike other snickerdoodle recipes) keeps the cookie puffy and beautiful.

One tip: do not be alarmed by the crumbliness of the dough. Sally does not fully explain how crumbly it is, but man is it crumbly. Really use that heat from your hands to compact it.

In other news, the past few days have been relaxation central. I have seen a few friends from home and spent New Years Eve with several friends from college. Biggest blessing being surrounded by them for what made an awesome evening.

Oh yeah. Plus J is staying at my house for a few days before we head back to school. That is pretty great. We have just been snacking like champs and running random errands. So good right!

Alyssa

Wanderlust Wednesday: Prague

2014-01-01T20:00:00.000-05:00

Winter in Prague via

"Decide that you want it more than you are afraid of it" - Bill Cosby

Alyssa

Weekly Wishes #1: The New Year

2013-12-31T13:00:00.000-05:00

The reality that 2013 is coming to a close astounds me. I am actually in denial that this year is over. Through the good and the bad, I can honestly say I have grown abundantly this year in more ways than I could have ever expected. I found rekindled loves of so many things (Ceramics, Communications, knitting and design just to name a few). My friends shifted and changed, and hey I got the most incredible boyfriend in the process. I went to Nepal and came back completely changed. I felt so busy this semester that I broke down crying and turned to God once again for support. 2013 has been a semester of ups and down. Yet through it all, I am so confident God was at the center of it all.

Now to focus on 2014. Let the fun begin!

~~Weekly~~ Yearly Wishes 2014:

1. Enjoy the simple things
I am feeling this is turning into my motto for the year. Stay tuned into how that turns out.

2. Exercise more
Yeah yeah yeah I know that this is on everyone in the nation's New Years resolution's list. Here is the thing, I worked out pretty consistently for a while and then just let life get in the way. I just love the way it makes me feel. I feel energized, powerful, confident and just strong. I want to go into 2014 not exercising to lose weight or alter my body, but to feel strong.

3. Blog regularly
I am so excited I have caught the blogging bug once again! I want to create a regular schedule. Put my DSLR to work.

4. Open an Etsy shop
I have wanted to open an Etsy shop for the longest time. My Mom and I are both crafty and I would be so content creating products and working on that. Here is the thing: I am a perfectionist in the sense I feel like I have to have everything in perfect order to launch the shop. I need the confidence to just launch it and see where it goes!

5. Work on my anxiety
For those of you who do not know, I have some pretty bad anxiety. I am type A through and through. Often I will feel anxious in stressful situations (hello college), when driving in the dark, if a plan suddenly changes or when I begin to think about the future. Now do not be alarmed. This anxiety I promise is not as awful as I make it sound. I am often easygoing when plans change, but every once in a while something will trigger anxiety Alyssa. My goal is for the anxiety to be lessened. To not overwhelm myself and learn to take a couple deep breaths and persevere.

6. Kill School
Academics are not always my strong suit. Most days, I would rather blog or be doing something for my major then worrying about studying for a Chemistry test the next day. However, I want to strive for greatness in every single one of my classes. Honor God with hard work.

6. Take trips (and document them all!)
Now that I have a DSLR, I have no excuse but to document all of my adventures. I plan on having plenty of them.

Well there you have it folks. New Years Resolutions all documented for the world to see. Let us just see if I can carry them out into 2015.

Have a blessed New Year.

Alyssa

Declutter for 2014

2013-12-30T16:30:00.000-05:00

Image via, Editing done by me

I was reading The Nectar Collective's post on 8 Natural Ways to Boost Your Happiness and found myself so drawn to #5: De-clutter. The new year is coming. Yet I look around and often feel so burdened by stuff.

I had this same feeling when I came back from my missions trip in Nepal. De-cluttering was how I dealt with the reverse culture shock of being back in the US. I came back to a house full of beautiful expensive things, yet I just left a village where the Pastor's family gave up their own food, beds and were willing to buy a goat for us. Those small gestures seem like nothing, but to them it meant everything.

I came back from my trip as well as my conference and felt so burdened. So heartbroken for the Nepali people and their country. The hopelessness that so many people deal with. The lack of Christ in so many of those people. So to cope with my new found heart break, I cleaned.

I went through possibly every valuable I owned, packed up 5 huge boxes for Goodwill and felt a huge burden lifted.

I felt rejuvenated. Renewed. A sense of peace overcame me.

De-cluttering is good.

It creates a sense of peace. It eases the mind. It makes you feel productive. It is like a cleanse of your belongings. It helps you live simply.

With the new year quickly approaching, I encourage you to look around. Get rid of a few things. Clean through those computer files. Organize your bookshelf. Just purge yourself of all the extra stuff, hence purging your mind.

My Tips:

1. Start off small.
Even a 15 minute cleaning project is better than no project

2. Ladies, work on that closet.
That is where I find the majority of my extra stuff accumulating. No one needs 5 pairs of black flats or 4 white T-Shirts. Work on finding your key staple pieces and going from there. Realize you have very few key staples? Get rid of 5 useless items and I believe you have just given yourself the excuse to invest in one of those staple items.

3. Go through one cabinet in your Kitchen.
Trust me, there are some gadgets that could use a better home there. For me it is mugs. I have piles of mugs that could use a better home on a goodwill shelf.

4. Go in with an open heart.
Be willing to realistically look at the things you own and say "do I use this? Will I use this?" Sometimes de-cluttering is hard. We are all burdened with materialism. It is ok to find it hard to let go of your stuff. Just remind yourself your identity is not in that pile of National Geographic's you cannot bring yourself to scrap.

5. You cannot give up everything.
There are some things you just cannot give up quite yet. For me its my endless amount of scrap booking supplies. Just organize it and accept that you will hold on to it for while.

6. Make Goals
You cannot go into any task without goals. Strive to pack up at least 1 box for Goodwill this weekend. Get rid of the first 10 things you see that you do not need. Be realistic with your goals, but do create them.

Use this time as a chance to start out fresh. Allow yourself to feel renewed. Take the time to purge.

Strive to live simply in 2014.

"Live simply so others may simply live" - Gandhi

Alyssa

Red Velvet Cookies

2013-12-28T20:44:00.007-05:00

Christmas break has been such a time of relaxation and rejuvenation. Truly, whenever I come home from college, I crash. Then, I just strive to enjoy the simple things. Like baking.

Today I tried a recipe from my favorite Blogging Baker - Sally from Sally's Baking Addiction. These are her Red Velvet Cookies. Truly such an easy recipe to follow and work with.

Now those of you who know me, I know what you are thinking - "why did Alyssa make a chocolate dessert when she does not even like chocolate?". Well it is essentially a win win. I get the joy of baking, just without the calories part.

Tips for the recipe:

Do not underestimate the thickness of the dough. It was definitely hard for me to thoroughly mix everything.

Use an ice scream scoop to get the dough. It is extremely hard after chilling for an hour.

Definitely use parchment paper to ensure the cookies stay soft.

Make sure your egg is room temperature. Just do it.

Overall, awesome recipe to try. Plus the color is fantastic. I am off to watch ARGO with my family. Have any great baking recipes you have tried recently? I am looking for something to bake for New Years Eve!

Alyssa

Favorite Friday: Layering

2013-12-27T21:38:00.000-05:00

I am no fashion blog. I mean I adore fashion, do not get me wrong. However, Fashion is not the main priority of this blog. I am just not all about those OOTD posts and what not.

However, I decided to launch a new feature to the blog - Favorite Friday!

I not only love theme days for the blog, but I then get to tell you about some of my favorite trends at the time. Whether it is fashion, home decor, crafts or music, you get some trendiness to your day on Fridays!

Photo Credit 1 2 3

My favorite thing now? Layering.

For those not above the Mason Dixon line, it is cold. I mean, I have not taken my L.L. Bean boots off in the past 10 days cold. So with cold comes, layers upon layers. However, you do not want to layer so much you are a bulky mess.

My go to is utilizing staples in creative ways. I love using my button down shirts and throwing a crew neck or quarter zip on top. I also love down vests. When you layer underneath a bit, a down vest does provide some extra warmth. Plus they are a great way to add a different color to your outfit.

Another must? A great coat that you will be able to handle all your bulk underneath. I tend to lean towards longer wool coats (as pictured above) to be able to cover my longer sweaters I own. No one wants that corner of knee length cardigan peekaboo-ing under your cropped pea coat.

As for bottoms, I tend to lean towards skinny jeans that can easily be tucked into boots. However, I have done a lot of great layering with a maxi skirt. Definitely invest in a long black one if you do not already own one.

Photo Credit 1 2 3

There are a ton of post-holiday sales out now! Grab some layers before that January freeze.

Alyssa

A Very Merry Christmas

2013-12-26T23:44:00.001-05:00

I am honestly surprised I am even writing this. I cannot explain to you how in the zone I have been the past 48 hours. With family functions, new presents and my rekindled love of knitting, I have become something of a robot.

Ok so I may be over exaggerating just a bit, but really.

Synopsis of Christmas:

I got a new Camera! Nikon D3200 with two lenses: an 18-55mm VR and an 55-200mm Non-VR DX. Plus a few filters and an ever so glorious camera bag. (Note the sarcasm. It is hideous but durable)

I also got a Patagonia 1/4 Zip Better Sweater. I am never taking it off.

Now that I have an SLR, I have been furiously sweeping the internet for the most idiot proof guide to taking pictures with it. My goal is to always use manual mode. My personal favorite guide so far is Darcy's 31 Days to a Better Photo. So what I may have been going a little faster than 31 days?

Also to discuss my knitting kick:

I have always been a knitter. I learned it with my Mom middle school and have loved it since.
In case any of you need clarification, I did say with my Mom. We both decided to learn from a group of old ladies at our Church. How precious is that.

My waves come and go, plus my skill level varies. However I love it a lot more than crocheting, which it seems that everyone at my college has picked up.

I have dreams of opening up an Etsy shop with my Mom in the next 6 months. That entrepreneur spirit in me. So on begins the knitting. Photographed are a few works in progress. I will post the finished results!

Have any beginner SLR photo tips? Or have a guide/blog that is helpful? Please let me know. I am a little stressed out about this new challenge I cannot seem to easily pick up.

I have some craft endeavors up my sleeve. Get excited.

Alyssa

Wanderlust Wednesday: Ireland

2013-12-25T12:08:00.000-05:00

Christmas in Temple Bar, Dublin, Ireland

"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful" - Norman Vincent Peale

Christmas Reflection

2013-12-24T16:33:00.000-05:00

I wish I did not wake up at 11:30am this morning.

I have been making an initiative to reclaim my mornings. Get a cup of coffee, sit in the stillness and just be.

Soak in the presence of the holy spirit around me.

I look around my house, with the mess of presents everywhere and the glowing of the tree. The smell of dinner cooking and the subtle roar of my parents arguing over something unimportant.

This stillness is one of the most beautiful aspects of the Christmas season. Jesus came into this world to die for us. His joyful birth is something to celebrate. Cheer for. Dance for. Yet with all of this, Jesus's birth is something to reflect on.

The holidays are hectic. Full of expectations, hurt, materialism and busyness.

Allow time for stillness. To just sit, reflect and bask in the presence of the Lord's birth.

Take time to Be Still.

Have a Merry Christmas.

Alyssa

Strip District-Pittsburgh

2013-12-24T02:38:00.000-05:00

Today has been the first time I have been in my beautiful city of Pittsburgh since Fall break.

That is about 3 months people. Not really OK in my book.

I got off for Thanksgiving break last Wednesday and headed straight to the Boy's house in Ohio for some much needed family bonding. By family bonding, I mean meeting approximately 15 different family members and spending more time with his family. I would be lying if I said it was not a little bit overwhelming. Yet, it was truly so great to spend more time with all of them.

However, being back in Pittsburgh means spending some much needed quality time with some long lost friends. I met up with one of my dearest friends from High school, Melanie, at Pamela's in Pittsburgh. Pamela's is a binge fest on the best crepe like Pancakes in Pittsburgh. Oh and lets not forget the bottomless coffee.

My adventure then took me into wandering the streets of the Strip District, visiting familiar places as well as unfamiliar. The Strip District is a maze of eclectic shops, Pittsburgh food staples, street vendors, Steeler's fans and no parking. Plus during the holiday season there is this essence that is magical.

Here in no particular order are 8 places in the Strip you need to visit.

1. Pamela's Diner

Well duh.

2. Pittsburgh Popcorn Company

I did not manage to make a stop today and boy do I regret it. Not only do they have the classic Caramel, Cheese and Kettle flavors, but PPC has changing flavors with every couple of weeks. Currently they have Candy Cane Corn, Buffalo n Ranch and Jalapeno Popper until the 26th.

3. Society for Contemporary Craft

Want an art gallery, store and classes in one? Well, the Society for Contemporary Craft is an incredible gallery right on Smallman Street that focuses on the art of mixed media and crafts. I love their use of beading in a lot of their art, as well as the innovation behind many of their exhibits. Plus I am actually addicted to looking up their different workshops.

4. 21st Street Coffee and Tea

You want a hipster coffee shop? Well here you have it.

5. Kaya

A blend of Caribbean and Pacific food. I absolutely adore this restaurant and the vibe it has. I recommend making a reservation and getting the Black Bean and Pineapple Quesadilla.

6. Mancini's Bread

Pittsburgh has a great deal of Italian roots, including Mancini's. They have the best bread in Pennsylvania without a doubt. Plus their Pepperoni Rolls and Pizza dough are to die for. Stop in to pick up a loaf of Italian bread and any other concoction you can find.

7. Penn Avenue Pottery

There is not much really to say. I am obsessed with handmande pottery. I could be in this store all day.

8. Pennsylvania Macaroni Co.

The lines may be long (I am not exaggerating, they are enormous), but you will find the best cheese and pasta sauce.

What are some hidden gems in your city? Where are your favorite places to go to be tourists in your own city?

Alyssa

Christmas in 8 Days

2013-12-18T11:00:00.003-05:00

Now that I am done with finals, I finally can whole heartedly celebrate the Christmas season. Due to the way Christmas and Thanksgiving fell this year though, I essentially only get 8 days at home celebrating without the stress of school. Another factor, I am staying with my boyfriend for 4 of those days.

Its time for me to fit every ounce of the holiday season in 8 days. How do you get the most of the holiday season?

1. Wear every ugly sweater you own.

If you do not own one, what are you doing still sitting at your computer. Run to your local Goodwill and pick one up before some hipster snags one up.

2. Seek out new Christmas music.

Trust me. I am the biggest advocate for traditional Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby Christmas music. But there is something that truly gets you into the holiday spirit like some new Christmas music. Some of my favorites? Folk Angel, Sufjan Stevens

3. Only find Christmas themed pins on Pinterest

I have found so much inspiration for Christmas decorations, crafts and cookies the past few weeks on Pinterest. Do not let the opportunity pass you by while your news feed is flooded with Christmas pins.

4. Get that Starbucks holiday drink.

There are only here during the holidays. From the college kid whose nearest Starbucks is a 20 minute drive away, take advantage of those beautiful red cups.

5. Drive around any nearby neighborhood to look at lights.

Some of my most memorable moments at Christmas consist of me driving by myself, Christmas music blaring and the glow of Christmas lights flooding my car. Even if you do not live in a neighborhood with light fanatics. Take a moment to just sit and stare at your Christmas tree.

6. Choose your Christmas movies wisely.

8 Days. That means realistically only 4-5 movies will actually be watched. My favorites? A Christmas Story, The Year without a Santa Clause, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and White Christmas.

7. Snow? Play in it.

If you have snow where you live, do not let it pass. Play in it. Build a snowman. Have a snowball fight. Do not be afraid to bring out your inner 10 year old. Snow is a beautiful thing God has given us. Embrace it. Plus its an excuse to wear my cute L.L. Bean boots.

8. Write heartfelt letters.

Everyone, including me deals with the stress of Christmas cards.Well 9 times out of 10 I usually never get them done. So why not take the opportunity to write my closest friends and loved ones truly heartfelt letters letting them know how much they mean to me? Even if it arrives a few days late, it hopefully will make their holidays.

Enjoy the last 8 Days of the Christmas Season!

Alyssa

Wanderlust Wednesdays

2013-12-18T01:09:00.001-05:00

Moraine Lake, Canada

"Travel. It leaves you speechless, then turns you into storyteller." - Ibn Battuta

The Artistic Mind

2013-12-16T22:39:00.000-05:00

Another semester under my belt. Lets just say if feels good.

Today I finished up what is the end of my finals. If definitely was a crazy two weeks to end the semester but so undeniably worth it. I can finally say I finished up my Entrepreneurship minor which truly has wore me down the past two years. Now I can just focus on my Communications classes as well as my regained love of art classes. Plus lets not forget about my beautiful sorority sisters. Spring semester consists of pledge, new freshman, double the bonding and even more love to go around. Let us not forget about the endless Coffaro's Pizza runs that will also arrive to the doors of our hall next semester.

Today my last final, aside from a presentation, was a Civilization and the Arts final. This class is a required class by the school that looks at the history of art and applies it to the Christian mind. These humanities classes are the things students grown about. Absolutely dreadful to take.

This class, even though the lectures itself were not my favorite, continued to open my heart once again to the world of art. As I studied my enormous stack of note cards into the wee morning hours, I found myself at such a sense of peace. The fact that God has given his creation the ability to create beautiful art astounds me. Just looking and listening to all of the art and music of the past five centuries, I fell into such a sense of awe. Gods incredible plan for these artists was to create beauty.

I only hope and pray that is my plan. I want to create beauty, but a beauty that will honor God.

Here is some Debussy to float your boat this week.
Alyssa.

A New Love: Ceramics Edition

2013-12-12T18:53:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, I love art. Crafts, Painting, Ceramics, basically I love it all. Well in the midst of projects and sorority events this semester, I have found a new love.

Ceramics.

Pottery, pueblo art, mugs, pots, abstract clay pieces. Literally anything that you can make with clay I have fallen in love with. I took a few pottery classes in high school and had the chance to take ceramics again this semester. A few of my pots are pictured below. More to come!

In my class we had three hand building projects as well as some time to learn the wheel. Lucky for me, since I knew a great deal of the intro stuff already I was ready to go. I found myself going into the studio everyday just wanting to be surrounded by the walls of pots. I loved looking at past students projects, pieces in the development stage and just being able to get my own frustrations out on the wheel.

To say ceramics is an obsession is now an understatement. I have legitimately looked into ceramics studios in Pittsburgh for the summer. I now only search ceramic artists on my pinterest. I even have dreams about ceramics (pretty embarrassing but true). My goal within the next year is to open my own etsy shop selling beautiful ceramics creations.

Have you ever gotten so hooked onto something that your obsession never fades?

When Life Drives You Crazy

2013-11-05T11:41:00.002-05:00

Well it has definitely been a while.

Seeing that my last post was an update on Nepal, the typical Alyssa business has set in with being back at school. It is crazy to see how I have been trying to cut out so many things in my life to be more free and functional, yet the pressures of day to day college life have dragged me down. Booo.

However, in spite of all of the craziness, God has revealed his incredible faithfulness and the importance of placing my full trust in him. Truly, I would not have been able to get through the past couple months without his presence constantly there, even when I was not seeking it.

Here is the classic life update that I so often revert to when I do not have time to actually post anything significant:

My August/September were characterized by my ability to go absolutely insane for a week as a part of my college's Orientation Board. This also included catching up with friends, my sorority sisters and getting back into the daily school grind.

September 5th was by birthday! The best present? Getting to go see the Avett Brothers for the third time with the boy. He is a champ and is the best at getting presents (even though he will avidly deny it).

School school school school homework exam school test school kill me. This stream of endless business and activities streams into today.

Also as social chair of my sorority, I had the privilege of planning so many wonderful events from our homecoming float, to fall party and our charity event Battle of the Bands. They were fantastic. Plus I love event planning. However, to say I am exhausted now from all of this planning is an understatement.

Also for Halloween Josh and I went as an old resort couple...so there is that.

I am working on some writing in the midst of internship searching and finally getting to the million things on my idealized to do list. Any creative writing, art or photography projects on your to do list? Let me know.

Keep it real. Expect to hear from me soon.

That time I went to Nepal

2013-08-07T21:08:00.000-04:00

Long time no post right? Story of my life. I have no excuse for the semester. I guess just busy with life, trying to keep investing in friends, people, my undeniably complicated schedule, oh yeah. I also was preparing to leave for weeks to travel to Nepal for missions work.

I cannot begin to explain how impactful and incredible this summer was. Truly a transformative time where I realized more than I can ever describe. Here is a small summary:

God is so good and so much bigger than we understand
Missions is hard. I do not care who tells you otherwise, but sharing the word of God and figuring out how God wants you to minister wherever he has called you is hard. Yet it is so worth it.
Nepali fashion is incredible. Why do we not wear baggy pants/tunics everyday in America
My passion for human trafficking has been made so clear. It has always been there, but I have found such a reignited passion for this cause.
I love America, but I kind of hate America. I am so over our materialistic, burdened culture
Tea is almost as good as coffee. Almost.

This is only a small summary of everything I have been able to realize in the few short weeks I have been back. I cannot describe how much I miss my incredible team and the beautiful people of Nepal.

Below are a few links pertaining more to my trip if you want to check them out. If not, I guess that is ok too. Also question of the day: tell me about your experiences with eye opening trips or missions experiences. Aaaaaand go.

New Wilmington Missions Conference - group I traveled through/best week of summer

Summer Service blog - the blog I worked on with my team

Pinch of Lyss

Sponsored Post: HASK Products

Favorite Friday: The 5207.5

Krochet Kids Photoshoot

Seasons of Change

Favorite Friday: Winter Boots

Hiatus

Weekly Wishes #2

Etsy Shop Launch

Favorite Friday: Hair Care

Rolo Stuffed Snickerdoodles

Wanderlust Wednesday: Prague

Weekly Wishes #1: The New Year

Declutter for 2014

Red Velvet Cookies

Favorite Friday: Layering

A Very Merry Christmas

Wanderlust Wednesday: Ireland

Christmas Reflection

Strip District-Pittsburgh

Christmas in 8 Days

Wanderlust Wednesdays

The Artistic Mind

A New Love: Ceramics Edition

When Life Drives You Crazy

That time I went to Nepal