[boefixepa]

Food is one of those odd things. It's something we have so much control over. We can't do much about mortgage, insurance, gas and such. At least what we can do won't effect us much. But food, food can vary greatly and it is 100% within our control. I think that is what makes it different. I could spend more, but I see a better opportunity to use that money elsewhere, so I'm making the choice to make a change. It's been fun and challenging, but I have not felt deprived in any way.

DivaJen, thank you for your concern. I do understand where you are coming from, but I have been very careful. With an average frame I am still on the upper end of the ideal weight range for my height (131-151). I still have about 25% body fat, though my scale says 33%, but I refuse to believe that. Money wasted on the scale that gives body fat too....grr.... I am shooting for 1200 calories a day knowing some days I will blow it, and that's okay. For my age 30, weight 145-148, and height 5'8".. 1200 calories a day should maintain with some splurges. If I dip below 143 I will eat a little more, but I'm more concerned with making sure I stay below 150.

The chart says 132.50 a month for me, but I'm guessing they expect you to buy some convience foods, and I doubt those numbers include eating out. I'll have to do some reading on that site. One of the conditions of my goal is to cook from scratch.