coudl you post a sample menu of a typical day for your self? that might help us see where you could maybe cut some corners but not sacrifice much...

i'm still trying to get the calorie thing under control. I'm about 1500-1600 calories. Then again, I don't obsess over them. Maybe I should? Anyway...I personally find protein shakes, meal replacement bars and shakes disappointing. I like to chew my food. Not drink calories. Chewing makes me happy. You probably like too as well. I feel that I have consumed nothing with shakes. I like the idea of, you could 300 calories worth of chips, or 300 calories worth of carrots. You can eat soo much more with the carrots than the chips. I believe the new weight watcher's plan uses this method. Try finding low calorie foods that you enjoy. Cucumber and carrots instead of chips, 1 or 2 egg whites instead of a protien shake. Just an idea. I'm still trying to get this diet thing under control too.

you don't need a protein shake
 

unless you are becoming a bodybuilder, protein shakes aren't necessary for protein requirements. try eggs, turkey, chicken. all will do the trick. I have been an athlete all my life and I don't eat after the gym if I am not hungry. have a protein shake that is like 200 calories for breakfast and call it good if you really must have one.