I also drink unsweetened almond milk. Almond breeze is 40 calories for 8 ounces. This week I found one that was even lower--30 calories for 8ounces. 1 cup of skim is either 80 or 90 calories for 8 ounces depending on the brand.
As far as making shakes--I like using a 1/2 pint of Arctic Zero ice cream softened and then about 3/4 cup of almond milk. I will also use fresh berries, banana, ground flaxseed, etc. depending on what I have. I just throw everything in the blender and whirl. A great SPLURGE for 100 calories(not including the add-ins)--you truly won't think you have anything "diet" in your hand.
In fact, you can use almond milk in just about anything you use milk in. It's a super way to lessen calories in everything imaginable. For instance, to make french toast I will mix the almond milk with egg whites and cinnamon. I dip in my 40 calorie whole wheat bread and YUMMO. I also use almond milk in my coffee.
You know, I will not lie to you. It took me a little bit to get used to it. Now, I do like it. I read here not long ago that cows milk was great if you plan to raise a calf but for humans there are better choices. I try to remember that one.
