You know how you meet someone and they simply get you? He or she is "on the same page", laughs at your jokes, shares the way you share and connects on the same level. There's this draw to be in the same room and a massive sense of relief knowing you don't have to care, try, or put any effort into pleasing her/him. The way you look, speak, act, sing, dress, eat, or what you talk about is not only expected, but accepted. The best part of all, is the ability of this specific human to make you feel loved. It's the power of your vibe. You found your tribe.

After MANY conflicting thoughts and all-consuming doubts, I'll never forget the day my therapist gave it to me straight: "Audrey, not everyone is going to like you". While I knew this, absolutely, it broadsided me like the day my brother missed the baseball conveniently pitched inches from my head. My heart hurt in the same way my brain felt the blow from the bat. His words are truth, my truth, and it took way too long for me to embrace it.

Always needing and seeking validation is life-draining--It will never be possible to please the masses. These bites came alive after 3 years of coaching and hearing there's a great demand for savory snacks--similar to a desire the majority of my clients have to feel accepted as they are. The same concept Brene Brown describes as "love and belonging". When I went into coaching I could not have predicted either one which is actually quite funny given my life story...Haha, always learning over here. All people can be kind, open-minded, driven by empathy and compassion, yet it's realistic to conclude not everyone is going to understand your vibe. IT'S OK. NEXT! Keep working on loving yourself in the same way and your tribe will come along.

If you are stuck, constantly prying yourself away from the salty treats at the store[you bought and are in the pantry] I think you might want to give these a try! You may have to think "outside the box" and be open to the textures and flavor. If you can't, I'd still love your feedback!

Smokey Fiesta Power Bites

By Audrey Byker, Health Coach inspired by Minimalist Baker's "Everyday Cooking"

1 Cup roasted walnuts

1/4 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp granulated garlic

3/4 Tbls chili powder

1 Tbls nutritional yeast(optional)

1 Tbls cocoa powder(optional)

1/2 Tbls cumin powder

Sea salt, two pinches

Black pepper, fresh ground to taste

1 Tbls pure maple syrup

1 Cup cooked quinoa

1 14oz can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 Tbls dried chives

Add walnuts, onion powder, granulate garlic, chili powder, nutritional yeast, cumin, salt, pepper and pure maple syrup to a food processor. Process until paste forms. In a large bowl add drained and rinsed black beans and smash with a fork, leaving a small amount whole. Next add quinoa, chives and nut paste to the bowl then stir together to form a dough. Roll into 1 inch balls and serve or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 1 week or freeze up to 6 months. Good at room temp for many hours!

Bonus: These bites have multiple uses! Use dough to make veggie burgers or sprinkle on a salad after pan frying in olive oil. Use as a meat replacement. They make an excellent post workout recovery food, high in protein, fat and nutrients.