Calorie counting

Hi, I was wondering if anyone has any tricks they can share when it comes to counting calories. I went to see Dr. Pohl and he gave me a # to try to stick to. It is not difficult, but what I find so darned frustrating is that I keep going back to the same foods...maybe it is because I know their caloric amount. I would love to expand some different foods and flavors, but am not to sure in what direction to go. He did mention something about a group starting up concerning calorie counting, but I haven't seen anything about it yet.

I did go to see a nutritionist, and heard some really good advice. Think of every hour like 100 calories (not that you eat every hour, but if you eat every 2 hours, then keep it under 200 calories, and if every 3 hours, then under 300) seems like that would work, but what happens when dinner seems to run into the 500's?

I really would like to look at volume verses denseness of calories, including high protein to keep me feeling fuller longer. I eat alot of salads (with very little dressing...measured!) and I am making sure that I get at least 65g of protein a day.

If you have any food suggestions or ways that you overcame the calorie counting frustration, please pass it on!

Thanks so much! Sorry I won't be there at the next meeting...I am going skiing...never been in my life before as I was always too heavy...so this is a NEW adventure for me!!!

Living life and LOVING it!
Ruth